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April 5, 2024 by Brett Tams

Inside: Learn how much your 70k salary is hourly. Plus find tips to make more money and live the lifestyle you want.

You want to know to look into this… Is 70k salary a solid hourly wage in today’s society?

When you get a job and you are making about $19 an hour, making over $70,000 a year seems like it would provide amazing opportunities for you. Right?

The median household income was $70,084 in 2021 not much different from the previous year (source). Think of it as a bell curve with $70 at the top; the median means half of the population makes less than that and half makes more money.

The average income in the U.S. is $55,350 for a 40-hour workweek; that is an increase of 1.1% from the previous year (source). That means if you take everyone’s income and divide the money out evenly between all of the people.

Obviously, $70k is above the average and median incomes; yet, most people feel like they can barely make ends meet with this higher than average salary.

But, the question remains… Can you truly live off 70,000 per year in today’s society? The question you want to ask all of your friends is whether $70000 per year is a good salary.

In this post, we are going to dive into everything that you need to know about a $70000 salary including hourly pay and a sample budget on how to spend and save your money.

These key facts will help you with money management and learn how much per hour $70k is as well as what you make per month, weekly, and biweekly.

Just like with any paycheck, it seems like money quickly goes out of your account to cover all of your bills and expenses, and you are left with a very small amount remaining. You may be disappointed that you were not able to reach your financial goals and you are left wondering…

Can I make a living on this salary?

$70000 a year is How Much an Hour?

When jumping from an hourly job to a salary for the first time, it is helpful to know how much is 70k a year hourly. That way you can decide whether or not the job is worthwhile for you.

70000 salary / 2080 hours = $33.65 per hour

$70000 a year is $33.65 per hour

Let’s breakdown how that 70000 salary to hourly number is calculated.

For our calculations to figure out how much is 70K salary hourly, we used the average five working days of 40 hours a week.

Typically, the average work week is 40 hours and you can work 52 weeks a year. Take 40 hours times 52 weeks and that equals 2,080 working hours. Then, divide the yearly salary of $70000 by 2,080 working hours and the result is $33.65 per hour.

Just below $34 an hour.

That number is the gross hourly income before taxes, insurance, 401K, or anything else is taken out. Net income is how much you deposit into your bank account.

You must check with your employer on how they plan to pay you. For those on salary, typically companies pay on a monthly, semi-monthly, biweekly, or weekly basis.

What If I Increased My Salary?

Just an interesting note… if you were to increase your annual salary by $10K, it would increase your hourly wage by $4.81 per hour.

To break it down – 80k a year is how much an hour = $38.46

That is a huge difference in what you are able to afford! Every dollar adds up to under $40 an hour.

How Much is $70K salary Per Month?

On average, the monthly amount would be $5,833.33.

Annual Salary of $70,000 ÷ 12 months = $5,833.33 per month

This is how much you make a month if you get paid 70000 a year.

$70k a year is how much a week?

This is a great number to know! How much do I make each week? When I roll out of bed and do my job of $70k salary a year, how much can I expect to make at the end of the week for my effort?

Once again, the assumption is 40 hours worked.

Annual Salary of $70000/52 weeks = $1,346 per week.

$70000 a year is how much biweekly?

For this calculation, take the average weekly pay of $1,346 and double it.

$1,346 per week x 2 = $2,692

Also, the other way to calculate this is:

Annual Salary of $70000 / 26 weeks = $2,692 biweekly.

How Much Is $70K Salary Per Day

This depends on how many hours you work in a day. For this example, we are going to use an eight-hour work day.

8 hours x 52 weeks = 260 working days

Annual Salary of $70000 / 260 working days = $269 per day

If you work a 10 hour day on 208 days throughout the year, you make $336 per day.

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$70000 Salary is…

$70000 Salary – Full Time	Total Income
Yearly Salary (52 weeks)	$70,000
Monthly Salary	$5,833
Weekly Wage (40 Hours)	$1,346
Bi-Weekly Wage (80 Hours)	$2,692
Daily Wage (8 Hours)	$269
Daily Wage (10 Hours)	$336
Hourly Wage	$33.65
Net Estimated Monthly Income	$4,453
Net Estimated Hourly Income	$25.69

^{**These are assumptions based on simple scenarios.}

70k A Year Is How Much An Hour After Taxes

Income taxes is one of the biggest culprits of reducing your take-home pay as well as FICA and Social Security. This is a true fact across the board with a salary range of up to $160,200.

When you start getting into a higher salary range, the more you make, the more money that you have to pay in taxes.

Every single tax situation is different.

On the basic level, let’s assume a 12% federal tax rate and 4% state rate. Plus a percentage is taken out for Social Security and Medicare (FICA) of 7.65%.

So, how much an hour is 70000 a year after taxes?

Gross Annual Salary: $70,000

Federal Taxes of 12%: $8,400
State Taxes of 4%: $2,800
Social Security and Medicare of 7.65%: $5,355

$70k Per Year After Taxes is $53,445.

This would be your net annual salary after taxes.

Hourly Wage After Taxes

To turn that back into an hourly wage, the assumption is working 2,080 hours.

$53445 ÷ 2,080 hours = $25.69 per hour

After estimated taxes and FICA, you are netting $53,445 per year, which is $16,555 per year less than what you expect.

***This is a very high-level example and can vary greatly depending on your personal situation and potential deductions. Therefore, here is a great tool to help you figure out how much your net paycheck would be.***

Taxes Based On Your State

In addition, if you live in a heavily taxed state like California or New York, then you have to pay way more money than somebody who lives in a no tax state like Texas or Florida. This is the debate of HCOL vs LCOL.

Thus, your yearly gross $70000 income can range from $47,845 to $56,245 depending on your state income taxes.

That is why it is important to realize the impact income taxes can have on your take home pay. It is one of those things that you should acknowledge and obviously, you need to pay taxes. But, it can also put a huge dent in your ability to live the lifestyle you want on a $70,000 income.

How Much Is 70K A Year Hourly Salary Calculator

More than likely, your salary is not a flat 70k, here is a tool to convert your salary to hourly calculator.

If you make 70000 a year, learn how much house can you afford.

70k salary lifestyle

Every person reading this post has a different upbringing and a different belief system about money. Therefore, what would be a lavish lifestyle to one person, maybe a frugal lifestyle to another person? And there’s no wrong or right, it is what works best for you.

One of the biggest factors to consider is your cost of living.

In another post, we detailed the differences between living in an HCOL vs LCOL vs MCOL area. When you live in big cities, trying to maintain your lifestyle of $70,000 a year is going to be much more difficult because your basic expenses, housing, transportation, food, and clothing are going to be much more expensive than you would find in a lower cost area.

To stretch your dollar further in the high cost of living area, you would have to probably live a very frugal lifestyle and prioritize where you want to spend money and where you do not. Whereas, if you live in a low cost of living area, you can live a much more lavish lifestyle because the cost of living is less. Thus, you have more fun spending left in your account each month.

As we noted earlier in the post, $70,000 a year is above the median income of $60000 that you would find in the United States. Thus, you are able to live an above-average lifestyle here in America.

What a $70,000 lifestyle will buy you:

If you are debt free and utilize smart money management skills, then you are able to enjoy the lifestyle you want.

When A $70,000 Salary Will Hold you Back:

However, if you are riddled with debt or unable to break the paycheck to paycheck cycle, then living off of 70k a year is going to be pretty darn difficult.

There are two factors that will keep holding you back:

You must pay off debt and cut all fun spending until that happens.
Break the paycheck to paycheck cycle.
Live a lifestyle that you can afford.

It is possible to get ahead with money!

It just comes with proper money management skills and a desire to have less stress around money. That is a winning combination regardless of your income level.

$70K a year Budget – Example

As always, here at Money Bliss, we focus on covering our basic expenses plus saving and giving first, and then our goal is to eliminate debt. The rest of the money is left for fun spending.

If you want to know how to manage 70k salary the best, then this is a prime example for you to compare your spending.

You can compare your budget to the ideal household budget percentages.

recommended budget percentages based on $70000 a year salary:

Category	Ideal Percentages	Sample Monthly Budget
Giving	10%	$583
Savings	15-25%	$1167
Housing	20-30%	$1400
Utilities	4-7%	$146
Groceries	5-12%	$394
Clothing	1-4%	$29
Transportation	4-10%	$175
Medical	5-12%	$292
Life Insurance	1%	$15
Education	1-4%	$20
Personal	2-7%	$88
Recreation / Entertainment	3-8%	$146
Debts	0% – Goal	$0
Government Tax (including Income Taxes, Social Security & Medicare)	15-25%	$1389
Total Gross Income		$5,833

^**^{In this budget, prioritization was given to savings, basic expenses and no debt.}

Is $70,000 a year a Good Salary?

As we stated earlier if you are able to make $70,000 a year, that is a good salary. You are making more money than the average American and slightly less on the bell curve on the median income.

You shouldn’t be questioning yourself if 70000 is a good salary.

However, too many times people get stuck in the lifestyle trap of trying to keep up with the Joneses, and their lifestyle desires get out of hand compared to their salary. And what they thought used to be a great salary actually is not making ends meet at this time.

This $70k salary would be considered a middle-upper class salary. This salary is something that you can live on very comfortably.

Check: Are you in the middle class?

In fact, this income level in the United States has enough buying power to put you in the top 91 percentile globally for per-person income (source).

The question you need to ask yourself with your 70k salary is:

Am I maxed at the top of my career?
Is there more income potential?
What obstacles do I face if I want to try to increase my income?

In the future years and with possible inflation, in some expensive cities, 70000 a year is not a good salary because the cost of living is so high, whereas these are some of the cities where you can make a comfortable living at 70000 per year.

If you are looking for a career change, you want to find jobs paying at least $90,000 per year.

Is 70k a good salary for a Single Person?

Simply put, yes.

You can stretch your salary much further because you are only worried about your own expenses. A single person will spend much less than if you need to provide for someone else.

Your living expenses and ideal budget are much less. Thus, you can live extremely comfortably on $70000 per year.

And… most of us probably regret that we didn’t learn how to spend money wisely. Oh well, lesson learned.

Is 70k a good salary for a family?

Many of the same principles apply above on whether $70000 is a good salary. The main difference with a family, you have more people to provide for than when you are single or have just one other person in your household.

The costs of raising children are high and will steeply cut into your income. As you can tell this is a huge dent in your income, specifically $12,980 annually per child. Plus this does not include college.

That means that amount of money is coming out of the income that you earned.

So, the question really remains is can you provide a good life for your family making $70,000 a year? This is the hardest part because each family has different choices, priorities, and values.

More or less, it comes down to two things:

The location where you live in.
Your lifestyle choices.

You can live comfortably as a family on this salary, but you will not be able to afford everything you want.

Many times when raising a family, it is helpful to have a dual-income household. That way you are able to provide the necessary expenses if both parties were making 70,000 per year, then the combined income for the household would be $140,000. Thus making your combined salary a very good income.

Learn how much money a family of 4 needs in each state.

Can you Live on $70000 Per Year?

As we outlined earlier in the post, $70,000 a year:

$33.65 Per Hour
$269-336 Per Day (depending on the length of day worked)
$1346 Per Week
$2692 Per Biweekly
$5833 Per Month

Next up is making $75000 a year.

Like anything else in life, you get to decide how to spend, save and give your money.

That is the difference for each person on whether or not you can live a middle-class lifestyle depends on many potential factors. If you live in California or New Jersey you are gonna have a tougher time than in Mississippi or even Texas.

In addition, if you are early in your career, starting out around 45,000 a year, that is a great place to be getting your career. However, if you have been in your career for over 20 years and still making $70K, then you probably need to look at asking for pay increases, picking up a second job, or finding a different career path.

Regardless of the wage that you make, if you are not able to live the lifestyle that you want, then you have to find ways to make it work for you. Everybody has choices to make.

But one of the things that can help you the most is to stick to our ideal household budget percentages to make sure you stay on track.

Learn exactly how much do I make per year…

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Did the post resonate with you?

More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!

Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.

Source: moneybliss.org

Apache is functioning normally

April 3, 2024 by Brett Tams

Inside: r/personalfinance is full of popular subreddits with ideas on how to make money and save money or invest. Know best practices for Reddit personal finance and ways to learn from them.

Reddit is a popular online community where people can share content, ask questions, and comment on news articles and topics. One of the most popular sections for personal finance discussions is /r/personalfinance.

Here are some of the best posts from that section:

“How has your finances changed post-graduation?”
“I was able to pay off my student loans as well as move back into my parents’ house without any difficulty.”
“My financial situation isn’t too bad right now, but I worry about the future.”

Reddit has some great threads that cover personal finance topics.

This blog post will give you a list of the top 25 Reddit Personal Finance Threads, letting you know which ones to check out next time you want to learn more about personal finances.

I created this list because there are very few resources that point to real people with real stories they want to share.

Our site is jammed packed with information on how to succeed with money. You may be looking for more specific personal finance information.

Also, you can find very specific information on r/personalfinance like how to save money when you’re starting off your career or trying to figure out how much it costs for certain things in life like specific college tuition, where rent costs vary, and so forth.

In addition, it includes some of the most popular and insightful posts on this website.

Hopefully, this will help you learn about all aspects of personal finance so that you can start managing money and reach financial independence today!

Why use Reddit Personal Finance?

There are many reasons to use Reddit Personal Finance.

Some people use it as a resource for their own personal finance, while others may be using it in order to plan out what they want to do with their finances.

Reddit Personal Finance is a community of people who share their experiences and tips on personal finance.

Users can post questions, browse the subreddit’s popular posts, or find new content in the “new” tab. Reddit Personal Finance also has a directory of personal finance resources and tools that you can use to better your finances.

The personal finance subreddit is thriving, and it’s only going to get bigger. With over 15 million subscribers in 2022, the community has a lot of content to explore. Plus almost half of users are online at any time to answer questions.

It can be hard enough to find your way around this vast platform but by following these 15 threads you will soon have no problem navigating Reddit Personal Finance with ease!

Positives of Personal Finance Subreddits

The internet is a place to share information and connect with others. One of the best ways to do this is through various social media platforms such as Reddit.

The following are some of the benefits of using personal finance subreddits.

Find out about new financial trends and learn about the best ways to invest your money
Get advice on how to manage your finances and make smart financial decisions
Be a part of the community and have a chance to grow your own knowledge
Learn about new products, services, and companies that could help you with your finances
Get advice on how to invest your money.
Grow your personal finance knowledge to help you reach your goals faster.

If you’re looking for a place to find some personal finance-related content, Reddit offers many subreddits that are all about these topics.

Some of the posts offer objective and helpful information while others can be subjective and relatable in person.

Reddit Basics

Before getting completely lost in Reddit, here are some important things you need to know.

For me, I quit using Reddit because I got overwhelmed and couldn’t find what I needed quickly enough. Thus, here is the lingo that will help you succeed.

Subreddit: A popular place to find information is on the subreddit; for example: “r/personalfinance”.
Upvote / Downvote: Users can upvote or downvote a comment. Reddit gives the comment a “score,” which is the number of upvotes minus the number of downvotes.
Karma: Other users can upvote or downvote your posts and comments; these tally to your “karma.” When providing helpful comments and posts, then they will reflect a higher karma score.
OP: Original Poster.
AMA: Ask Me Anything. An online Q&A session hosted by Reddit’s community in which some guest (normally famous) is or are available for questions
EDIT and ETA: Edit and Edited. A simple way for a user to denote the added to their original comment.
TL;DR: Too Long; Didn’t Read. This is added at the end of long text posts or comments to quickly summarize an article or comment as being too long to read. Sometimes, people use it to summarize the main point in case you don’t want to read the entire thing.

Top 5 Reddits Personal Finance

These are the most popular subreddits for personal finance. They have the most followers and daily interactions.

Does it mean they are the most important? No, there are plenty of subreddits to read regarding personal finances. (Don’t worry… we have a list of them below!)

R/PersonalFinance

R/PersonalFinance is a subreddit that focuses on personal finance.

This is the most popular community related to personal finances.

R/PersonalFinance is a subreddit for personal finance discussions, such as investing, budgeting, and saving money.

The subreddit’s community primarily consists of people who are just starting out with personal finance and those who are struggling to make ends meet as well as plenty of people who are ready to give back and help others.

Followers: 17.6m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: You are not “family” to your employer.

r/wallstreetbets

r/wallstreetbets is a subreddit that discusses the world of Wall Street, and how it impacts current events in financial markets. The subreddit’s name is a reference to the popular trading platform Wall Street.

Wall Street bets are financial wagers known for moving so-called “meme” stocks. Also, they are known to move stocks quickly in one direction to force hedge funds to cover their short sales, such as GME or AMC.

People in this community may win big and lose big since they are gambling on the information. You need to learn the meaning of YOLO.

Followers: 13.8m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Times Square right now

r/bitcoin

The subreddit r/bitcoin is a popular Bitcoin news, discussion, and information site. The subreddit is one of the most active on Reddit with over 3 million subscribers.

As it is a digital means of payment, Bitcoin can resist wild rises in inflation and unfair banking practices because people are the ones who control their power and money. That is the belief of this community.

Followers: 4.9m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: It’s official! 1 Bitcoin = $10,000 USD

r/stocks

r/stocks is a subreddit in which people discuss the stock market, share trading strategies, and ask questions related to the stock market. There are no rules on r/stocks; users can post links to articles, ask questions, or share their own thoughts on the stock market.

Posts related to reddit stocks are welcome on /r/stocks, but read the rules first. Feel free to share a ticker everyone should know about.

Followers: 5.3m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Companies try to prevent people from trading GME and AMCDiscussion

As you can tell, most of the popular Reddit topics are related to making money through stocks or cryptocurrency.

Is that a bad thing? No.

Just remember… You can learn to fish or you can be fed by others. Personally, I think it is best to learn how to fish and find your own way to make money with stocks and cryptocurrency.

Must Read:

The Next Best 21 Personal Finance Subreddits

The purpose of any of these subreddits is to provide an online community where people can discuss their finances in a respectful, non-judgmental, and anonymous environment.

We will cover the best personal finance Reddit forums that offer advice that can help people at all levels of their finances with tips ranging from simple ones such as grocery shopping without checking receipts and getting discounts by using apps to more complicated ones like how to save up for a vacation.

This list is not limited to just Reddit threads.

Here is a collection of the top 22 personal finance subreddits on Reddit:

R/Frugal

R/Frugal is a subreddit on Reddit.com that focuses on frugality and the concept of living life with less money. Also, the community is made up of individuals who are interested in living a lifestyle of less spending and more saving.

Frugality takes mental preparation of all your resources including time, money, convenience, and any other desired things.

Followers: 2.9m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: I got bids from tile setters to do a backsplash for $2000. I ended up doing it myself for under $200.

R/investing

Reddit’s r/investing is a subreddit dedicated to the stock market. It has more than 2.0 million subscribers and provides information on stocks, investing strategies, and other related topics.

Investing is the process of putting money into assets in the hope that they will increase in value. Sometimes investments are made by professionals, but most often, people invest for themselves and their families.

If you are looking for advice on investing, r/investing is the place to go. With nearly 2 million readers and growing, there is a lot of information here that can help people make better financial decisions.

Followers: 2.2m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Robinhood and other brokers literally blocking purchase of $GME, $NOK, $BB, $AMC; allow sells

R/Shoestring

A discussion community focusing on travel and cheap options for traveling, whether through couchsurfing, camping, staying in hotels or hostels.

Discuss topics such as booking last-minute plane tickets, cheap destinations, budget transportation like hitchhiking or staying in Airbnbs. Learn the benefits of these different methods of travel.

Wanting to travel on a shoestring budget is a real gig!

Followers: 2.0m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: I worked roughly 10 hours a week at an Airbnb in exchange for housing and amenities.

R/realestateinvesting

Real estate investing is the process of buying a property with the intention of renting it out or flipping it for profit. The term applies to any real estate investment but typically refers to residential properties that are bought and sold.

Real Estate Investing is a popular topic on Reddit. It covers the types of investments, such as flipping houses to investing in commercial real estate, or even wholesaling.

Followers: 1.7m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Today, at the age of 28, I became a millionaire

R/Financialindependence

The r/financialindependence subreddit is a good place to find people who are working towards financial independence.

This is a place where people who are or want to become financially independent, which means not working for money can meet one another.

Having money affirmations are a huge part of the motivation for those in the FI movement.

Followers: 1.9m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Just Crossed 100K Net Worth Living in NY

r/PersonalFinanceCanada

r/PersonalFinanceCanada is a subreddit that is dedicated to Canadian personal finance and investing topics. The Reddit personal finance Canada community has over 600,000 subscribers who share questions, experiences, advice, and more.

This is great for country-specific financial issues.

Followers: 1.2m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Bullet Dodged- First Time Home Buyers Be Ware.

r/UKPersonalFinance

The subreddit r/UKPersonalFinance is a place for people to share their personal finance experiences with others. The subreddit was created by two UK-based users in 2013 and originally had about 200 subscribers. It now has more than 500,000 subscribers and is one of the most popular finance-related subreddits on Reddit.

Learn, discuss, and request help on how to get access to, budget for, protect your money from, save and invest your money in the UK.

Followers: 1.0m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Financial Reality Check

R/CreditCards

R/CreditCards is a subreddit dedicated to the discussion of credit cards, credit and debit cards, prepaid cards, banks, loans, etc.

In addition to the standard trading of information on pricing and terms, Reddit users can also post links to other websites that offer credit card offers.

Followers: 1.2m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Do not do this, if you want your credit card to remain open

r/finance

R/Finance is a subreddit on Reddit that focuses on personal finance. The sub has more than 20,000 subscribers and receives more than 100,000 views per day.

All questions must be asked in the Monday Morning catch-all threads.

Followers: 1.8m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Bipartisan bill would ban lawmakers from buying, selling stocks

r/budgetfood

The subreddit r/budgetfood is dedicated to discussing and sharing the best cheap food ideas. It has a strong focus on coming up with recipes that are both nutritious and easy to make.

Find great tips to stretch your grocery budget.

Followers: 1.2m Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Sesame “chicken,” but with cauliflower

r/FinancialPlanning

A subreddit to discuss and ask questions about personal finances, budgeting, investments, and insurance of people’s portfolios.

Followers: 581k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Dad Level – Expert

R/leanfire

R/leanfire is a subreddit for posts about lean startup, business, and marketing. The name of the subreddit comes from the lean startup methodology philosophy which has been popularized by Eric Ries and Steve Blank, who are both cited as the founders of the lean startup movement.

R/Leanfire is a subreddit for those who are trying to achieve the type of success that qualifies you as financially independent. It’s not an easy task, but it can be done with hard work and determination.

Followers: 260k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Just paid off my house

R/passive_income

Reddit has a subreddit that is dedicated to the topic of passive income. This includes things like side-hustles and other ways to make money without having to work for it.

The passive income community on Reddit discusses how they can make money. They post their experiences and give advice to other members of the community about making passive income. This is great for finding more ways to make money.

Followers: 322k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: I’m sure this means passive income. But can someone explain it. I don’t get it.

R/FIRE

R/FIRE is a subreddit that focuses on the topic of financial independence retire early.

For financial independence retire early movement has become popular over the past 5-10 years.

This is not just a community, but a place to discuss Financial Independence Retiring Early (FIRE) by fighting for financial freedom and controlling your destiny.

Followers: 263k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Don’t be discouraged by young people who seem to be doing way better than you.

R/StudentLoans

R/StudentLoans is a subreddit dedicated to financial aid advice and discussion.

Some people are having trouble with student loans and they may be asking for advice. Here is some information on how to pay off your loan, as well as make mistakes that could lead to fees or interest added onto the balance of a loan.

Followers: 281k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Biden to extend waivers another nine months

R/Bogleheads

The subreddit R/Bogleheads is a community for people who follow Jack Bogle’s simple investing methods to diversify and let compounding grow wealth. They share common interests and discuss topics such as the US financial system, taxation, Social Security, and retirement.

Perfect community for the passive investor.

Followers: 241k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: I started investing in my 401k 25 years ago this week. Hit a milestone today.

R/sidehustle

The term, “side hustle”, is a movement in recent years. Side Hustlers are people who would like to supplement their income by doing activities that they enjoy outside of work or school. In this community, start a small business or non-professional activity that you do in your spare time to supplement your income.

Followers: 412k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: Strange Side Hustle – I resell Bras full time on Amazon. AMA

R/money

r/money is primarily composed of people discussing personal finance topics such as stocks, investing, taxes, and personal finance.

Consequently, this smaller subreddit will help you get real advice and not lots of random opinions.

Followers: 89.9k Members (as of April 2023)

Top Post: New r/money subreddit icon?

Reddit Personal Finance Flowchart

The flowchart below describes the general process of saving for a goal. The user has to consider how much money they can allocate each month, and then determine how long it will take them to save for their goal.

This is a very similar concept to a personal financial statement.

You must consider how much you want to save each month, as well.

Find the Reddit personal finance flowchart.

In addition, the simplicity of the flowchart will be surprising.

Must Read: Money Bliss Steps to Financial Freedom

Reddit Personal Finance FAQ

Avoiding Reddit may be hard, but it is possible to avoid the more toxic parts of this site. There are a few key things to keep in mind that will help you avoid the worst of Reddit.

Avoid #1 – Posting Personal Information

The best practice is to avoid posting personal information. As such, your information may be used against you. Reddit is a social media website with different spheres of interest.

In order to avoid appearing disingenuous, it is best not to ask for upvotes or downvotes on posts.

Avoid #2 – Breaking the Thread Rules

The website has its own set of rules which every user should be familiar with before posting anything on the website. Reddit is known for its open dialogue, where members are encouraged to discuss a variety of topics from politics to technology.

However, people frown upon breaking the community rules.

Getting kicked out of many Reddit forums for not following the community rules is a possibility.

Avoid #3 – Be Careful on Opinions

The popular, winning opinions on Reddit are often biased and not based on facts. One example is the “What’s your favorite type of cheese” thread. In the end, it was a wildly popular opinion and later debunked by science.

One way to avoid these posts is by following an established Redditor with a solid reputation who has shown their ability to discuss topics like investing or personal finance without being judgmental or overly emotional about it.

Always do your own research to back up anything you may have learned on a r/personalfinance thread.

Reddit Personal Finance Windfall of Information

It is difficult to save money and track your finances because there is so much information coming at you.

There is no one likable than a hero in the story of personal finance, but what if you could be that hero?

These Reddit Personal Finance Threads are a great way for beginner investors or people just starting out on their own journey to learn about the different aspects of personal finance.

Also, there are helpful for veterans trying to keep up with all those new financial technologies over the years.

The best 25 Reddit Personal Finance Threads include some interesting posts on the topic from different perspectives like stocks, earning more money through certain professions, making your first million dollars, etc.

Thus, giving you plenty of insightful tips for success in life and finances!

After reading this Reddit personal finance article, make sure to subscribe for more Money Bliss tips.

As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Did the post resonate with you?

More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!

Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.

Source: moneybliss.org

Apache is functioning normally

March 25, 2024 by Brett Tams

Today, I have a fun guest post from my friend Cody Berman. Cody is a digital nomad who quit his corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship full-time. He started selling digital products in 2018 and became hooked after earning $700+ in one week. He now helps other entrepreneurs and creators monetize their businesses through digital products….

—

I used to be a chronic side hustler. At one point I had 20+ income streams. Sounds great, right? Except it wasn’t.

I was all over the place, trying every side hustle imaginable – delivering UberEats, editing podcasts, building websites, selling discs, running affiliate campaigns, writing articles, buffing boats, you name it. But most of the time, I felt like I was stuck trading my time for money.

Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.

Don’t get me wrong, the money was great for some of these side hustles, but if I didn’t work I didn’t get paid. At one point, I made $500 for writing a single blog article! But once the article was delivered and the invoice was paid, I had to hunt for my next gig and turn in the work to make my next dollar.

At one point, I co-founded a disc golf manufacturing business. I thought that this business was going to be my golden ticket. For those who don’t know, disc golf is similar to ball golf, except instead of hitting a ball into a hole with a club, you are throwing a plastic “disc” into a basket. Our company manufactured those discs.

We started scaling pretty quickly and within two years we were selling our products in all 50 states and 20+ countries. On paper, everything looked amazing. But behind the scenes, we constantly had product issues, shipping delays, mismanaged inventory, and everything that else could possibly go wrong with a physical product business.

I was feeling tired and burnt out and looking for something new.

Fast forward to early 2019 and my friend Julie, another side hustler, told me that she had been selling printables on Etsy. She had spent about 60 hours creating a bunch of digital products (a.k.a. printables) and had made over $5,000 so far. The words “so far” were the ones that got me hooked.

Unlike my my physical products business where each unit had to be manufactured, quality tested, packaged, and shipped, these “digital products” sounded different. By the way Julie was describing it, I could create a digital product once and keep making money from it without much additional effort. This sounded ten times better than all of the side hustles I had tried (and way more passive).

The only problem was that I didn’t really have any clue what a “printable” was… and I had never even been on Etsy. And at this point, you might be thinking the same thing.

What exactly are printables? Basically, they’re digital files that customers can download and print at home. Think cards, planners, calendars, games, gift tags – the possibilities are endless!

The best part? Once you’ve created a printable, you can sell it an unlimited number of times without ever having to worry about restocking inventory or shipping costs.

Now back to my story. Even though I didn’t really know how to create printables, or what printables to sell, or anything about graphic design for that matter, I decided to give it a shot. If Julie could do it, I could do it, right?

Wrong.

My first ~20 printables were absolutely terrible, but I listed them on Etsy anyway. You’ll never guess what happened next. I got a whopping… zero sales.

OK, maybe you did guess that.

Between my zero graphic design skills, lack of product research, and unfamiliarity with the Etsy platform, I definitely wasn’t setting any sales records.

One of the printables I have made

But after some trial and error – well, a lot of trial and error – I managed to come up with some pretty decent-looking printables. I focused on creating seasonal products, a strategy I often recommend to beginners. And let me tell you, it paid off big time.

In December and January, I created dozens of Valentine’s Day printables since I had heard that it was one of the biggest holidays on Etsy. Some of my designs included Valentine’s cards, love coupons, editable love notes, custom photo cards, and more.

And finally, after months of crickets, it seemed like the algorithm was working in my favor, with tons of people searching for Valentine’s gifts and cards for their loved ones. The real excitement started on February 9th, just five days before the big holiday.

I remember that week vividly because while all this was happening, I was actually skiing in Lake Tahoe. And on February 9th, when I checked my phone in the ski lodge at lunch, I had made over $100… that day.

The entire week continued to be extremely profitable and I ended the week with $718 in sales from just a handful of products that took me a couple of hours to create. It was the first time I experienced true passive income. The only part that wasn’t passive was answering the occasional customer question, which took less than five minutes per day from my phone.

That experience was a game-changer for me. It was the moment I realized the true potential of selling digital products on Etsy. And I owe a big thank you to Julie, who introduced me to this side hustle and helped me see that I could create products that continued to make money long after I’d created them.

Let me be clear – building a successful Etsy shop isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme. There’s work involved in getting your shop up and running, from creating high-quality designs to optimizing your listings and promoting your products. But trust me when I say that the effort is worth it.

Once your Etsy shop is up and running, it can become a passive income machine. Your printables can sell for years and years after you list them. That next Valentine’s Day, I was in Aruba for a wedding event, and the same exact designs that earned me $718 in Lake Tahoe, earned me hundreds again that next year.

These Valentine’s Day printables have been sitting in my Etsy shop for years at this point, and they continue to make sales every single year. Compared to selling physical products, delivering UberEats on a bike, editing podcasts, or writing blog posts, this side hustle is so much more passive.

If you want to learn more, I recommend signing up for the Free Training Workshop: Earn Money Selling Printables. This free workshop will teach you how to get started selling printables. You will learn different ideas for printables to sell, how to get started on Etsy, and how to actually make sales.

Are you interested in selling printables online? What questions do you have?

Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.

Recommended reading: Gold City Ventures Review: E-Printables Course Review

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

March 23, 2024 by Brett Tams

If you’re running a business, you probably know that managing cash is critical to your success — so let’s share some tips on doing that even better. Solid cash flow is vital to keep a business thriving, whether you’re a sole proprietor or the head of a larger enterprise. Even businesses with strong earnings can struggle with cash flow. That’s why cash flow can be a sure sign of how healthy a business is — or is not.

So let us help you optimize that cash flow. We’ll share some smart insights and helpful tips on:

• What cash management for business is

• Why it’s so important

• Ways you can improve your business cash management

Let’s get started.

What is Business Cash Management?

Simply put, business cash management is basically the way you track and manage the money coming into and going out of your business – usually on a cash flow statement. Positive cash flow means more money is coming in through revenues or borrowing than is being used to pay expenses, such as payroll and rent.

That said, good cash management also means not having too much cash on hand. In that scenario, business owners, while cautious, may be missing out on future earnings growth when they neglect to invest cash back into the business.

Here’s another way to frame this principle: Take a look at your business’s balance sheet and check the ratio of current liquid assets to liabilities. A ratio that’s greater than one indicates good health (you’re not losing money), but if that ratio gets too high, you could be holding onto too much cash or other assets that could better be invested elsewhere.

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The Importance of Cash Management for Businesses

Cash flow is the essence of all businesses. Without cash, a business will struggle to meet expenses, pay suppliers, repay any investors, and, often most importantly, grow the business through marketing and/or new opportunities.

Strong cash management strategies can help business owners avoid taking on debt. It also gives them more control over everyday activities, decisions, and growth opportunities. What’s more, smart cash management is the best way for owners to fulfill their vision for their enterprise while meeting both their short, intermediate and long-term needs. There’s certainly a lot riding on cash management, so let’s dive into ways to optimize it.

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6 Tips for Managing Cash Flow

Cash management can be especially challenging for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Yet it is one of the most important financial strategies business owners must master. These six tips can help.

1. Learning Your Cash Flow Cycle

A cash flow cycle is the time it takes to purchase your supplies and materials (or prepare the work that goes into providing a service), transform them into a product, sell your offering, and collect payment that can go into your business bank account. Sounds simple but a lot can go haywire during that process.

That’s why it’s important for business owners to constantly update and monitor their balance sheets and profit and loss statements. Ideally, you want to know at any given time what happened in the cash-flow cycle last month. Also important: Knowing your projections for what’s going to happen next month.

Understanding your cash flow cycle can help identify and address inconsistencies such as a late-paying customer or a build-up of inventory. If your business is seasonal or cyclical, you want to be well-prepared for both the intensely busy times…and the lulls.

Recommended: How to Track Your Monthly Expenses: Step-by-Step Guide

2. Getting Payments on Time

Reminding customers to pay on time is one of the easiest but most necessary ways to manage cash flow. Late payments are a fact of life; common, even. Having receivables come in even a day or two past the due date can wreak havoc with your cash flow cycle and your bank account.

Consider setting up email reminders to all customers ten days, seven days, and two days before payment is due. Technology today makes it a snap to pre-schedule email blasts. If the payment is still late or only a partial payment was made, don’t hesitate to follow up with a personal note or phone call.

This simple solution can really work. Customers will pay more attention to timely payments when they know you are paying close attention.

3. Turning Over Inventory Quickly

Having an abundance of inventory on hand at a given time means that a bundle of cash is tied up in that unsold stock. That could be an issue, because those funds might otherwise be working to pay for operations and expenses. What’s more, if all of that inventory bought upfront doesn’t sell as expected, it could mean losses on top of that lack of cash. That could hurt your growth and business valuation.

Many small business owners have learned that, in terms of cash, it’s better to turn inventory more quickly. Of course, this will vary widely depending on your business – perhaps your product is handmade jewelry, perhaps its reconditioned air conditioners. As an example, you might want to boost inventory turn-over from twice a year to five times. More targeted marketing could contribute to this acceleration.

That said, finding the right inventory management to fit with your cash flow cycles takes some time and experience. Recent supply chain issues have shown how challenging inventory management can be. Again, constant monitoring of the cash flow cycle can help guide how you tweak things.

Recommended: How Much Does It Cost to Start a Business?

4. Understand Invoice Financing

Let’s say you hit a cash management hitch. If you do find yourself in a position where you have too much inventory on hand and you need cash to cover expenses, there is a path forward. Invoice financing companies will advance a full or partial amount of your outstanding invoices. You repay that amount plus interest after the invoice is paid.

This generally should only be considered as a stop-gap measure. Like credit cards, interest payments on invoice financing can add up fast and quickly get out of control. Consider the fact that annual percentage rates for invoice financing products can reach as high as a jaw-dropping 64%.

5. Cutting Costs

Monitoring and cutting costs on expenses is another tool for managing cash flow. After all, if less cash goes to pay overhead, more can be invested in the business. A few suggestions: Relying on online marketing efforts that can be less costly than traditional methods, outsourcing tasks that take too much time and money in-house, and reducing energy costs. You might also want to renegotiate outdated contracts and prices with suppliers. These are all areas business owners can consistently monitor to keep costs low.

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6. Comparing Loans

Sometimes, a business could use a helping hand to smooth out its cash flow. Let’s say you have outstanding accounts receivable — in other words, you know money is due but you don’t have it yet — and you need the cash now. In this situation, taking a business loan can be an option to help bridge the gap.

Cash flow loans (like invoice financing explained above) are short-term loans or lines of credit. These are often used to cover expenses or to take advantage of opportunities that can increase revenue.

A working capital loan is another option that can be used to finance everyday business operations such as rent, payroll, or restocking inventory. These loans are not designed to finance long-term assets or investment. Companies with seasonal or cyclical sales often rely on working capital loans to provide relief during slow periods.

One caveat: Working capital loans are often tied to your personal credit, so missed payments or defaults will affect your credit score. Consider that carefully before you sign on.

In addition, there are a variety of small business loans available that are used to finance long-term expenses such as real estate, equipment purchases, or business expansion. These include SBA loans, business lines of credit, and term loans.

Whatever type of loan you choose, be sure to compare your options carefully. Look at terms, APR, and how much lending you qualify for among several lenders before taking on any short or long-term debt. Spending some time and energy on research will help ensure you get the right form of financing.

The Takeaway

Cash flow management is an essential part of running a successful business of any size. Carefully monitoring cash flow, and learning some simple strategies to maximize it can take your small business to the next level.

Whether your business is a full-time job or just a side gig, it’s important to keep your business cash flow separate from your personal cash flow. In both cases, you’ll want to find a bank account that pays a competitive rate, charges no or low fees, and makes it easy to access your money.

Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.

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Photo credit: iStock/AlexSecret

SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.

SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.

SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.

SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.

Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.

Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

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Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

March 22, 2024 by Brett Tams

Are you a little obsessed with planning your next big trip? We hear you! The excitement of seeing new places — whether that means a faraway tropical island or a neighboring state — is a powerful lure. But there’s one thing that may get in the way: Money.

Let’s be real, travel can be expensive. Even if you’re hopping in the car for a short weekend road trip, the cost of gas, food, entertainment, accommodations, and more can get a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, with a little bit of planning, you can make your travel dreams a reality. And it can all begin by creating a travel fund.

What Is a Travel Fund?

A travel fund is exactly what it sounds like — a fund exclusively used for gallivanting around the world. It’s a place to stash some cash that you don’t use for rent, bills, repaying student loans, or any other monthly financial obligations. This fund is just for your passion in life. And your passion is clearly traveling.

How to Fund Traveling

Unfortunately, a travel savings account will not grow by magic. If only! You’ll need to find ways to funnel some cash towards your travel plans. There are a variety of ways to do this. Perhaps you got a raise recently (nice!) and can put that amount directly towards travel. Or, maybe you can automatically whisk $25 or $50 per paycheck into your savings. Or, you might give up concert tickets or takeout food for a while to allow some wiggle room in your budget that goes towards paying for your next getaway. There are many options — some of which we’ll explore below.

Recommended: 15 Easy Ways to Save Money

Setting Up a Dedicated Travel Savings Account

There are a few options for where to keep your travel fund. Yes, you could keep your vacation fund in the same account as your day-to-day savings, but separating the fund could provide even more clarity.

Keeping your travel fund in a separate account can make it easy to see how close you are to reaching your travel goal. It allows you to see exactly how much money you’ve saved for the cause with ease. Having the money in a separate account also allows you to set up automatic contributions, just as you might already be doing with your other accounts.

Automating your savings towards travel means you can eliminate another task from your to-do list. You’ll be making progress toward your dream of cruising down the Nile without even having to think about it. And since it’s stashed separately, you don’t need to worry that you’ll use it on, say, entertainment or new shoes without realizing it.

Tips on Selecting an Account to Use

When it comes to setting up a dedicated travel fund, the first order of business is usually to pick an account type. There are a variety of options to choose from. Part of what will likely influence your decision is how long you plan on saving. If you want to take a trip in just a few months, a savings account may be a good vehicle. You can easily contribute to it, and you’ll earn some interest.

To help your travel fund grow faster, you may want to go with a high yield savings account. These accounts typically pay a much higher annual percentage yield (APY) than traditional savings accounts, giving you the ability to earn more on your money while still enjoying the security of a federally insured account. These days, many high-yield savings accounts offer APYs of up to 5% or more — many times more than the average national rate of 0.46%.

Some of these accounts may come with certain restrictions, like a limited number of withdrawals a month or maintaining a minimum balance, so be sure to read the fine print on each account you might be considering.

Another is a certificate of deposit (CD), which locks up your money for a particular term, typically from six months to a few years. This type of account can sometimes offer a more competitive interest rate than a traditional savings account but comes with withdrawal restrictions. If you choose to withdraw the money before the term ends, you’ll likely have to pay a penalty or fee.

Yet another option is to use a cash management account with a brokerage firm. These accounts are meant as an option for your uninvested money. They can also be great for putting away some extra money to save, but again — do read the fine print. Fees may be involved, plus commissions if a broker steps in to help you with your investments. Make sure that these won’t cut into your savings.

All of these options will allow you to keep your vacation fund separate from your checking account, emergency savings, or regular savings account. You may even be able to give it a unique name like “travel fund” or even more specific like “Tahiti fund.” It’s much more exciting to watch “dream trip to Bali fund” grow than just “account: 3283052.”

Growing Your Travel Fund

After you’ve created your unique travel fund, it’s time to put in some savings work. And that begins with your budget. If you already have a budget, that’s great. All you need to do is add in “travel fund” as a new line item and shift as much money as you feel comfortable moving to this new account each month.

But, if you’re starting from scratch, that’s OK too. Trying to save for the trip of a lifetime is just as good an excuse as any to start budgeting.

To build a budget, you’ll want to start by figuring out your average monthly take-home income (what you earn after taxes are taken out). Next, it’s good to create a list of all your monthly expenses. You’ll want to include all the basics like rent or mortgage, car payments, student loans, credit card statements, food, gas, insurance, gym memberships, streaming accounts, and any money you currently put towards saving and investing. Make sure to get as granular as possible about your spending.

Next, subtract your average monthly expenses from your average monthly income to see how much you have leftover. If it’s more than $0, that’s excellent news! You can put the excess towards your travel fund. If not, you’ll need to find some places to cut back on spending.

Recommended: How to Make a Budget in 5 Steps

Finding Extra Cash for Your Travel Account

If you’d like that leftover number in your budget to be higher, maybe it’s time to take a look at both your spending and your current income level. Perhaps you can see where changes can be made.

One of the potentially easiest ways to create more cash for your travel fund is to look deeply at your monthly spending. Are you still subscribing to that streaming service you never (or rarely) watch? Are you signed up for the premium version of that social media platform you haven’t been on in months?

What about that gym membership? How’s that going for you? Go ahead and get rid of things that aren’t bringing you joy or are dispensable. Then, refocus those funds in your travel fund.

If there’s no room for cuts, then it might be time to increase your income. Of course, you could always ask for a raise at work, but if that doesn’t come through, explore some other options — like a side hustle. A side hustle is a gig you take on outside your normal work to make some extra money. If you can, pick something you really enjoy doing so it feels less like “work.” For example, if you love dogs but aren’t ready to own one, maybe walking dogs before work would be fun for you.

If you are a handy person who likes to fix things, creating a listing on a site like Thumbtack or TaskRabbit may be a good idea. If you have other talents like photography, writing, or graphic design, you might do some networking to see if you can drum up some freelance work. That way, you can get paid for what you love to do and save for what you love too.

Recommended: How Families Can Afford to Travel on Vacation

SoFi: Your Partner in Creating a Travel Fund

By now, you’ve committed to adjusting your budget and setting aside cash in a new fund. The only thing left to do is find the best place to stash your cash.

When choosing where to put your travel fund, you’ll want to find an account that pays a competitive yield, keeps your money safe, and allows you to easily access your funds when it’s time to set off for your next adventure.

SoFi Travel has teamed up with Expedia to bring even more to your one-stop finance app, helping you book reservations — for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more — all in one place. SoFi Members also have exclusive access to premium savings, with 10% or more off on select hotels. Plus, earn unlimited 3%** cash back rewards when you book with your SoFi Unlimited 2% Credit Card through SoFi Travel.

Wherever you’re going, get there with SoFi Travel.

FAQ

How much should I keep in my travel fund?

To come up with a travel savings goal, you’ll want to determine how much you’ll need for your trip and when you want to take it. From there, you can determine how much you’ll need to transfer into your travel fund each month to reach your goal. For example, if your trip will cost $2,500 and you plan to travel in six months, you’ll need to set aside around $33 a month.

How do I set up a travel fund?

Setting up a travel fund can take only a matter of minutes. It can be as easy as opening a savings account online and then directing money towards it. You can also go into a brick-and-mortar bank to set up an account.

How can I save money on a travel fund?

To save money on a travel fund, look for a savings account that doesn’t charge monthly fees and offers a competitive interest rate. These two factors will help boost your savings and get you on your dream vacation as quickly as possible.

**Terms, and conditions apply: The SoFi Travel Portal is operated by Expedia. To learn more about Expedia, click https://www.expediagroup.com/home/default.aspx.

When you use your SoFi Credit Card to make a purchase on the SoFi Travel Portal, you will earn a number of SoFi Member Rewards points equal to 3% of the total amount you spend on the SoFi Travel Portal. Members can save up to 10% or more on eligible bookings.

Eligibility:
You must be a SoFi registered user.
You must agree to SoFi’s privacy consent agreement.
You must book the travel on SoFi’s Travel Portal reached directly through a link on the SoFi website or mobile application. Travel booked directly on Expedia’s website or app, or any other site operated or powered by Expedia is not eligible.
You must pay using your SoFi Credit Card.

SoFi Member Rewards: All terms applicable to the use of SoFi Member Rewards apply. To learn more please see: https://www.sofi.com/rewards/ and Terms applicable to Member Rewards.

Additional Terms:
Changes to your bookings will affect the Rewards balance for the purchase.
Any canceled bookings or fraud will cause Rewards to be rescinded.
Rewards can be delayed by up to 7 business days after a transaction posts on Members’ SoFi Credit Card ledger.
SoFi reserves the right to withhold Rewards points for suspected fraud, misuse, or suspicious activities.
©2023 SoFi Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC), (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

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Source: sofi.com

Apache is functioning normally

March 20, 2024 by Brett Tams

Want to learn how to make money online without paying anything? Here are ways to earn money online for free. Making money online without putting in money up front is doable for many people. Thanks to the growth of online jobs and businesses, you can make extra money or create a full-time job from home….

Want to learn how to make money online without paying anything? Here are ways to earn money online for free.

Making money online without putting in money up front is doable for many people. Thanks to the growth of online jobs and businesses, you can make extra money or create a full-time job from home.

It doesn’t matter if you’re skilled or just getting started – there are ways to make money without paying anything at the beginning. You can use your creativity and skills in things like making content, providing digital services, and selling stuff online to make a steady income.

I personally have made money online in many different ways without paying anything to get started, so I know that this truly does exist.

Best Ways To Make Money Online Without Paying Anything

Here’s a quick summary of my favorite ways to make money without investment:

Best way to make money online freelancing – Proofreading
My favorite way to make money online for free – Blogging
Best way to make money online for passive income – Selling printables
Best way to make money online for those who like numbers – Bookkeeping

Below are the best ways to make money online without paying anything.

1. Blogging

Blogging is exactly what I started years ago, and I didn’t pay any money in the beginning to get started.

If you want to make money with a laptop, then this is what I recommend.

I began Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and it has helped me earn over $5,000,000 since then. I started my blog on a whim to share my own money journey, not even knowing that people could make money from blogs or how to make a successful one.

Now, it’s my full-time job!

Eventually, you will have costs with a blog, just like with most of the businesses listed below, if you want to grow and make more money. But, the expenses are low compared to how much money you may be able to make.

So, what’s a blog? A blog is like this content you’re reading now – it’s writing on a website. You can blog about something you’re passionate about, something you know a lot about, or even something you want to learn more about (people enjoy following firsthand journeys!).

There are many different niches (topics) that you can write about too, such as travel, personal finance, home, lifestyle, family, food, and more.

You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).

Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?

In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.

2. Printables

Selling printables is a way to make passive income from home without upfront costs.

This is because printables are digital files that you can download and print at home. You only need to make one digital file for each product, and then you can sell it multiple times.

They can be things like grocery shopping lists, invites, thank you cards, digital art, or gift tags.

I have bought many printables myself, and many others do too. Recently, I purchased a printable to help teach my daughter the alphabet. It was a useful tool, and I could easily print it at home.

You can learn more about this at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.

Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.

3. Proofreading

If you like finding mistakes in written content and want to start a business without spending a lot of money, then proofreading might be a good choice for you. This can be a part-time job or a full-time career working from home.

Many proofreaders earn around $40,000 a year or even more.

Proofreaders look for errors in articles, ads, books, student papers, emails, transcripts, and more.

To become a proofreader, all you need is a laptop or tablet, an internet connection, and the ability to spot mistakes and errors. So, you probably already have everything you need to get started.

I recommend signing up for a free 76-minute workshop, where you can learn more about becoming a proofreader. You can sign up for the free How To Become a Proofreader workshop here.

Recommended reading: How To Become A Proofreader And Work From Anywhere

This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.

4. Freelance writing

Freelance writing is a great way to make money online without any upfront costs, as you don’t need any expensive equipment to get started.

A freelance writer is someone who writes for different places like websites, blogs, magazines, ads, books, and other things.

I have been a freelance writer for many years now, all from my laptop. I really enjoy being a freelance writer, and I have many friends who do this as well. I started this job because I wanted to make money from home and not spend money trying to figure it out. And, it worked!

This job can earn you more than $50,000 a year. Some of my friends who are freelance writers make over $200,000 a year.

Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs

5. Opening an online store

Starting an online store is a way to make money without upfront costs, and sites like Etsy and Shopify make this possible.

On Etsy, you can sell things like handmade or vintage items and craft supplies. This online marketplace is great if you’re creative and want to sell unique, one-of-a-kind products. Shopify, on the other hand, has more flexibility in what you can sell and allows you to build your personal storefront.

There are many different types of things you can sell, such as digital products like ebooks or web design templates, which don’t require inventory and can be sold repeatedly without additional cost. Physical products, on the other hand, can also be sold but keep in mind that you’ll need a plan for shipping, and you may have to spend money in order to have them as inventory to list on your store.

Another idea is dropshipping. This is a business model where you don’t need to keep inventory or ship products yourself. Instead, you work with suppliers who take care of inventory and shipping for you.

Below are some ideas for things you could sell through an online dropshipping store:

Travel items such as portable luggage scales, neck pillows, or travel cubes
Fitness equipment like yoga mats, weights, or resistance bands
Sustainable products such as reusable utensils, bamboo toothbrushes, tote bags, or eco-friendly cleaning supplies
Camping-related items like hammocks, lanterns, cookware sets, and survival kits
Jewelry such as stackable rings, layered bracelets, anklets, and statement earrings

6. Print-on-demand

Similar to the above, print-on-demand (POD) is a business model where you sell your custom designs on products like T-shirts, mugs, and books, but only print them once an order is placed.

It’s a popular way to start an online business with minimal upfront costs because you don’t have to worry about inventory. Your job is to create the designs and set up your online store.

Once a customer buys a product, the order goes straight to your POD supplier who prints and ships it under your brand name.

7. Stock photography

Stock photography is a way to make money online without any cash up front. If you already have a camera or even just a cell phone, you can get started selling stock photographs.

You are simply taking photos, putting them on a stock photo website, and selling them to people and companies.

People buy stock images from websites like Shutterstock, Getty Images, or Adobe Stock for many reasons, such as adding them to their websites, articles, blog posts, advertisements, and social media.

You can sell many types of pictures, including travel, business, people, food, animals, health, fashion, sports, and more.

For example, if I write a blog post about making money with a laptop, I might buy a stock photo of a laptop. Or, if I need a picture related to making money while traveling, I’d find a picture of a vacation to include in my blog post. Stock images can make a blog post more enjoyable to read.

Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures

8. Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is a way for you to earn money by promoting products or services online, and you don’t need anything special to get started.

With affiliate marketing, if your friend or follower buys a product through a referral link you share, you get paid a commission – it’s as simple as that.

First, pick products you love and are sure others will benefit from. Then, sign up for their affiliate program. Each program gives you an affiliate link. This link tracks who clicks and buys from your recommendation.

Your job is to share your affiliate link with as many interested people as possible. You could write about it on your blog, make videos, or even just share it on social media.

I recommend signing up for Affiliate Marketing Tips For Bloggers – Free eBook to learn more.

9. Playing games and watching videos for money

There are lots of money-making apps that let you earn cash by playing games or watching videos on your phone.

These apps pay you real money because they make money from ads and in-app purchases. To get you to keep playing, they give you a share of their earnings. For watching videos, the sites reward you with points for watching sponsored videos, and these videos can range from ads to short clips.

Now, these won’t make you rich, but it is a way to make money from your phone without upfront costs.

Here’s a quick list of the top video and game apps that pay real cash:

KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars

Recommended reading: 15 Ways To Make Money From Your Phone

10. Market research and focus groups

If you love sharing your opinions, market research and focus groups are great ways for you to earn cash online without paying anything. This kind of work connects you with companies seeking feedback on their products or services. It’s all about understanding what you think as a consumer.

Lots of companies want to hear from people like you and me, and you can share your opinions with them using just a laptop or phone, some free time, and a good internet connection.

When I was paying off my student loans, I took online surveys almost every day. I did them before work, during lunch, or after work. Even though they didn’t make me a lot of money, they were flexible because I could do them whenever I had time. Plus, they were really easy and didn’t require much thinking!

Here are some survey companies I suggest:

American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
PrizeRebel
User Interviews – This one pays on average around $60 per assignment (much higher than the rest, but it is a little more work for participants as these are usually video calls or on the phone)

Signing up for these survey sites is free, and typically, they pay about $1 to $3 for each survey you finish.

11. Online tutoring

As an online tutor, you get to teach students from the comfort of your home. Your job is to share your knowledge and help in a subject you know well. You don’t have to worry about traveling or a strict schedule; you can choose when to do your online tutoring gig.

You can make between $30 and $60 per hour or more, depending on the subject’s difficulty and your expertise. And you don’t need to spend any money up front, so it’s a way to earn online without extra costs.

As a tutor, you might spend 30 minutes to an hour giving a lesson, answering questions online, or working one-on-one with a student in a video lesson.

12. Virtual assistant job

You can make money from home as a virtual assistant by doing administrative tasks for clients online. You don’t need anything to get started other than a computer or laptop.

Virtual assistants, or VAs, do tasks similar to administrative assistants, but they work from home or anywhere with internet.

Virtual assistants do things like:

Email management – Answering and organizing emails
Calendar management – Scheduling appointments, meetings, and events
Administrative support – Preparing reports, presentations, and documents
Travel arrangements – Booking flights, hotels, and transportation for business trips
Internet research – Doing online research on topics to write about, competitors, products, etc.
Website maintenance – Updating content, monitoring performance, and managing website-related tasks
Personal tasks – Booking appointments or making dinner reservations

I’ve been a virtual assistant before (it was actually one of my first online jobs, and I liked how I didn’t have to spend money to become a VA), and I also have one who works for me, so I know how useful they can be! Plus, you don’t need anything expensive to get started.

13. Social media influencer

Being a social media influencer is a real way to make money online without any initial cost, and plenty of people have started their social media accounts by spending absolutely $0. In fact, I think most people start as just a hobby!

You can start with just your phone, by taking pictures and sharing your thoughts on social media accounts like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

You can earn money as a social media influencer through sponsored posts, where brands pay you to promote their products or services in your posts. You can also make money through affiliate marketing, where you earn commissions from sales made through your referral links. Plus, you can sell digital products like ebooks or online courses.

I’ve been a social media influencer for years, monetizing my Instagram and Facebook accounts. It’s allowed me to collaborate with brands I love and promote products I already use.

14. Transcriptionist

Becoming a transcriptionist can be a good choice to make money online without upfront costs. This is something that you can learn to do, and transcriptionists usually make around $15 per hour.

As a transcriptionist, you can earn money from home by turning audio files or video files into written documents. Clients can include marketers, authors, filmmakers, academics, speakers, and conferences.

To find transcription jobs, some places to start include:

Rev – Transcribers on Rev earn an average of $245 per month, with top earners making up to $1,495.
CrowdSurf – CrowdSurf pays for short transcription tasks, which are great for those looking for quick, manageable projects.
TranscribeMe – This platform is good for beginners as they give training and only require a reliable internet connection and computer.

Recommended reading: 18 Top Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners

In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.

15. Video gaming livestreams

Yes, you can make money online with no upfront costs by live streaming (such as a video game that you like to play). Eventually, you may want to upgrade to higher-quality equipment, but you can start right away with what you already have – your computer and phone.

Twitch is a website where you can make money by playing video games, talking with viewers in real time through live streams, and more.

As your viewer count grows, you can start making money. Streamers can earn through ways such as:

Subscriptions – Your fans can pay a monthly fee to support you as subscribers.
Donations – Viewers can send you tips if they enjoy your stream.
Advertisements – You can get paid from ads that run on your live stream.
Sponsorships – Companies may pay you to promote their products.

Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?

16. YouTube

Starting a YouTube channel is a popular way to make money online without any initial investment. You can record videos from your phone or camera, and you don’t really need anything else to get started in the beginning.

You can start a YouTube channel about many different topics like finance, home, travel, toys, pets, and more. There’s a YouTube channel for almost anything nowadays, and there’s still space for more!

In your YouTube videos, you can include links to products you recommend, earn money from ads that play during your videos, get paid by brands to feature their products, and even sell your own stuff.

17. Freelance graphic design

As a graphic designer, you can earn money online without investing any money up front. You can create designs such as logos, social media graphics, and branding materials for clients.

To start, you will most likely want to create a simple but impactful portfolio to display your work. This is your opportunity to show your abilities to potential clients, so you will want to include your favorite projects and what reflects your design style.

You can also sign up on freelance sites like Fiverr where businesses look for designers like you.

18. Virtual bookkeeping

Bookkeepers manage financial records, track expenses, and generate financial reports; it requires attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

This job typically pays more than $40,000 a year. Plus, many types of businesses require bookkeepers, making it a great career choice with opportunities for growth.

Even better, you can do this job from home using your computer and the internet.

Yes, you don’t need a degree to be a bookkeeper. You can start by learning basic bookkeeping and the software most businesses use.

If you want to become a bookkeeper, there is a free workshop all about finding a virtual bookkeeping job, and you can sign up for free here.

This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.

19. Write an ebook

Writing an ebook can be a way to make money without needing upfront investment, other than your time and effort. This is something you can do yourself too, such as through the self-publishing route on Amazon.

Ebooks are digital books that you can download and read on devices like tablets, phones, e-readers, or laptops. They’ve become very popular because they’re affordable and easy to access.

I’ve purchased many ebooks myself, ranging from nonfiction to fiction, and many, many other people have as well.

Recommended reading: How this person is making $200 a day in book sales passively.

20. Online travel agent

A travel agent is a professional who helps people plan and book trips, vacations, and other travel arrangements. They give their expertise and support in finding the best deals on transportation, accommodations, and activities, considering their clients’ preferences, budgets, and needs.

Travel agents also give helpful advice on destinations, suggest itineraries, arrange tours and excursions, and handle logistics such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and travel insurance.

There are many different kinds of niches you can sell vacations and trips in, such as luxury travel, cruises, Disney, budget travel, and adventure holidays.

21. Write book reviews

If you enjoy reading and talking about books, you can make money by writing reviews at home. Authors and publishers want to hear your honest opinions because they help other readers choose their next book. Readers also like these reviews, so it benefits everyone involved.

You don’t need anything other than your computer (or even just your cell phone) to write the reviews. Many times, the book is given to you to review, so you don’t even have to pay for that.

This is typically more of a side gig for spare cash and free books.

Here are some websites where you can make money online by writing book reviews:

OnlineBookClub.org – They give free books for your first book review (and no other payment). After your first review, you can earn cash for each review, usually between $5 and $60.
Kirkus Media – They look for reviewers for both English and Spanish books, particularly in the Kirkus indie section. Reviews involve around 350-word summaries due two weeks after receiving the book. They cover all genres, with over 10,000 books reviewed annually.
Upwork – Create a profile as a book reviewer on this freelance platform. You can choose projects that interest you and set your own rates.
The US Review of Books – They hire freelance writers for 250- to 300-word reviews that go beyond summarizing to provide insights into the book. To join, submit a resume, writing samples, and a couple of references.
Reedsy Discovery – Review books before they are published and get paid through tips from readers, ranging from $1 to $5. It’s an exciting way to influence which books become popular.

Learn more at 16 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books.

22. Online job opportunities

There are many more ways to make money online that won’t cost you money to get started, and these include:

Finding remote part-time or full-time jobs – If you want a full-time income or are interested in part-time work, popular job search platforms like Indeed can help. They help you find jobs that fit your schedule where you work for someone else as an employee, such as software engineer, developer, human resources manager, IT manager, and more.
Customer service and support jobs – As an at-home customer service rep, you would work for companies, answering customer questions and issues that they may be having.
Data entry and administrative jobs – Data entry jobs are ideal for you if you have a good eye for detail and can work independently.

These are all jobs where you would be working for someone else, but online from home. The company would normally provide you everything you need to get started, such as any software and possibly even the laptop as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to make money online without paying anything.

How can I make money online completely for free?

There are many ways to make money online completely for free. You can start a blog, freelance write, bookkeep, write book reviews, sell stock photography, or become a virtual assistant.

How can students earn money online without any investment?

Students can make money online without any investment by answering online surveys, tutoring online, freelance writing, proofreading, blogging, and more. Whether you want to make extra cash or a full-time income, there are many options for students.

How to Make Money Online Without Paying Anything – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to make money online without paying anything.

Getting started with making money online might feel overwhelming and impossible, but it’s not impossible if you do it right.

The internet has many places where you can show off your skills as a writer, artist, or tutor. You can also sell items online, or even play games and give your opinion in surveys.

What other ways are there to make money online for free without investment?

Recommended reading:

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

March 15, 2024 by Brett Tams

Inside: Proofreading is more than just catching errors; it’s an essential final touch in the writing process. If you want to turn your attention to detail into a career, allow this guide to enlighten your path to becoming a professional proofreader.

In a rapidly advancing digital age characterized by burgeoning AI capabilities, the art of proofreading remains not only relevant but fundamentally essential.

Today, proofreaders are the unsung guardians of clarity, maintaining and enhancing the rich tapestry of the written word. They are the bridge between AI’s raw computational power and the intricate subtleties of human expression. To embark on In today’s AI-driven era, the role of a proofreader is evolving yet remains an indispensable asset in the echelons of written communication.

While spellchecker tools and grammar correction algorithms, such as those embedded in Google Docs and implemented by Grammarly, streamline basic editing tasks with a click, the nuanced understanding of language intricacies still falls within the human domain. It is the human eye that captures the essence of context, tone, and the writer’s singular style—factors that AI, in its current state, is yet to fully comprehend.

Becoming a proofreader offers the flexibility to be your own boss and set your own schedule, allowing you to work around other life commitments.

With the consistently high demand for proofreading and the ability to work from anywhere, it provides both a stable career path and the opportunity to experience new and interesting careers.

Understanding What a Proofreader Does

A proofreader is a guardian of grammar, a sentinel of syntax—a final reviewer ensuring that texts are free from errors before they reach the public.

This vital role involves meticulous examination for any slips that might diminish the quality and clarity of the final product.

How do I become a proofreader with no experience?

Breaking into proofreading without prior experience may seem daunting, but it’s entirely attainable.

Initiate your journey by seeking comprehensive training, such as a proofreading course, which often includes substantial practice material to simulate real-world experience.

This is one of the best ways to make money online for beginners.

What qualifications do I need to be a proofreader?

While there’s no fixed rulebook for proofreading qualifications, a command of language and a fine-tuned eye for detail are essential.

A formal certification is beneficial, but it’s your demonstrated skills and experience that will truly make you a sought-after proofreader.

How to Become A Proofreader

Breaking into the world of proofreading can transform your passion for words into a lucrative career or a flexible side job.

This section will explore the meticulous path to becoming a professional proofreader, offering practical tips to help you refine your skills, equip yourself with the necessary tools, and navigate the job market effectively. From cultivating a deep love for reading to marketing your expertise, we’ll guide you through each step to ensure your journey toward proofreading proficiency is clear and achievable.

This is how you can make 10k a month.

Step #1 – Acquiring Essential Proofreading Skills

Attention to detail is the cornerstone of proofreading, as it enables you to catch mistakes that others may overlook. Equally crucial is a strong command of the language, allowing you to navigate through intricate grammar and punctuation with precision, ensuring the text reads flawlessly.

Understanding varied writing styles and mastering style guides like Chicago, APA, and AP is pivotal in proofreading.

This knowledge ensures accuracy in diverse documents, adapts to client preferences, and maintains the document’s integrity according to recognized standards.

Make sure you are great at meeting deadlines!

Step # 2- Certification and Training for Proofreaders

Deciding on a proofreading certificate depends on your career strategy. While not mandatory, a certification can bolster your credibility, demonstrate your commitment to the craft, and may provide a competitive edge when approaching potential clients or employers in the industry.

Selecting the right proofreading course is crucial for gaining a strong foothold in the industry.

Search for programs with a balanced mix of theory and applied learning, mentorship from seasoned professionals, and ideally, one that aligns with your specific area of interest within the broad field.

Also, look for courses that help you to land your first proofreading gig. You want to see any typo fast!

Transcript Proofreading

Get the step-by-step guide Caitlin Pyle used to build a thriving at-home business making a full-time income!

A booming legal industry means that transcript proofreaders are in higher demand than ever…

Step #3 – Building Your Proofreading Toolkit

Every proofreader needs a reliable set of tools. Essential software includes Microsoft Word for detailed editing, Google Docs for easy collaboration, Grammarly for grammar checks, the Hemingway App for readability improvements, and McGraw Hill’s Proofreading Guidebook as a comprehensive reference.

Crafting an efficient proofreading process is key to maintaining high standards of work.

This involves systematic reading for different types of punctuation errors or grammar mistakes, employing tools strategically, and setting up checklists that align with specific document requirements to ensure a thorough review every time.

Step #4 – Gaining Practical Experience

Practical experience in proofreading is invaluable as it not only sharpens your eye for detail but also builds a robust portfolio that demonstrates your ability to handle diverse materials. Many people start with a blog.

It provides tangible proof of your skills to prospective clients, showcasing your efficiency in enhancing various texts, which is often more convincing than theoretical knowledge alone.

Formal Education vs. On-the-Job Experience: Formal education in English or communication can provide foundational knowledge, but isn’t always required for proofreading roles. On-the-job experience develops the practical skills needed to succeed in the field.
Volunteering and Internship Opportunities: Volunteering and internships offer valuable experience and are a practical approach to entering the publishing industry. Seek opportunities for content editing for student publications, small businesses, or nonprofit organizations to hone your skills and grow your professional network.
Practice with Real-world Editing Exercises: This prepares you for client work. Utilize resources like Purdue Writing Center’s exercises or the Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading’s quizzes to test and refine your abilities in a practical, hands-on manner.

Step #5 – Marketing Yourself as a Proofreader

Marketing yourself as a proofreader is pivotal in attracting clients and establishing a steady work stream in a competitive industry. It is the key to building brand awareness and showcasing your expertise, differentiating your services in the crowded marketplace.

Creating a Professional Resume and Portfolio: To present yourself as a credible proofreader, craft a resume highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Include a portfolio showcasing a range of proofreading projects. If you’re starting, include testimonials and detail any related training or certificates to demonstrate your commitment and competence.
Networking and Leveraging Online Platforms: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry peers and potential clients. Participate in forums and proofreading groups to stay informed and visible in the community. Engaging actively online can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.

Delve deeper into your craft with advanced courses and stay updated on language trends. Embracing niche specialization, such as legal or technical documents, can heighten your expertise and attract a more specific clientele.

Step #6 – Finding Freelance Proofreading Jobs

For entry-level proofreaders, platforms like Fiverr can kickstart your gig journey despite its low-cost market reputation. Check out Upwork or AngelList for a broader scope of opportunities.

Specialized job boards or proofreading service companies can also offer targeted job prospects to grow your experience.

Professional courses, such as those offered by Proofread Anywhere, can significantly enhance your skills, thereby increasing your likelihood of securing clients.

Step # 7 – Setting Competitive Rates and Billing Clients

Determining competitive rates for your proofreading services involves accounting for your skill level, the complexity of the work, and industry standards.

According to Proofread Anywhere, those who are starting can expect to earn around $0.03 per word, while proofreaders with a few years of experience often earn around $0.10 to $0.15 per word.

Remember to underscore value over price to clients, and utilize professional invoicing software for billing.

For many, this provides a great life-work balance for those wanting to make money as a stay at home mom.

Learn the Skill to Proofread Anywhere

Are you passionate about words and reading?

If so, proofreading could be a perfect fit for you, just like it’s been for countless of my readers!

Learn how you can create a freelance business as a proofreader.

Step #8 – Scaling Your Proofreading Career

Scaling your proofreading business involves more than just honing your skills; it requires a strategic approach to marketing to attract a broader client base. By concentrating on active marketing techniques like networking and reaching out to potential clients, you can accelerate the growth and scalability of your proofreading services.

Transitioning from freelancing to business ownership requires deliberate planning and goal-setting. You must establish a realistic timeline and create a comprehensive business plan outlining services, target clients, and marketing strategies.

Don’t forget to consider also the administrative and financial duties that come with business management.

Also, continuous skill improvement is critical to staying competitive as a proofreader.

FAQs

No, a degree is not a prerequisite for becoming a proofreader. Various paths lead to a career in proofreading, and while some positions may require a degree, many others prioritize skill, precision, and practical experience over formal education.

According to Proofread Anywhere, a proofreader can earn an annual salary of around $53,733 per year. However, the salary depends on experience, skill, niche, and who you work for.

But with the right strategies, the potential to earn more is significant, especially for skilled freelancers.

Without experience, focus on platforms offering entry-level proofreading jobs such as Fiverr, Upwork, or FlexJobs. Networking can also be a powerful tool; let your personal and professional contacts know you’re offering proofreading services. Finally, consider volunteering to build your portfolio and gain references.

Now, How to get Proofreading Work?

Embarking on a journey to become a sought-after proofreader can be significantly streamlined by enrolling in the Proofread Anywhere course.

By choosing this comprehensive program, individuals gain access to expert knowledge and practical tips from someone with proven success in the industry.

Not only will the course equip you with the essential skills needed to identify errors and enhance text quality, but it also serves as a springboard for securing gigs and establishing a thriving freelance business.

Additionally, Proofread Anywhere connects you with a network of like-minded professionals, which can be invaluable as you navigate the competitive field of proofreading. Set yourself apart from the competition by starting with a course that offers a direct route to proficiency and professional recognition in the proofreading world.

If you are looking to make 5000 dollars fast, this is a great method.

Did the post resonate with you?

More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!

Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.

Source: moneybliss.org

Apache is functioning normally

March 12, 2024 by Brett Tams

Inside: Learn how to land lucrative paid house sitting gigs. From crafting a standout application to negotiating pay, our guide covers everything you need for success as a house and pet sitter. Get your first housesitting job now.

For those seeking a unique way to trim their living expenses and swell their savings account—or perhaps even add a fresh stream of income—the fascinating world of house sitting beckons.

Imagine the possibilities of a life where you not only dodge the relentless outpour of cash for rent but also have the potential to get paid for simply residing in and caring for someone else’s home. House sitting has forged a pathway for individuals from all walks of life to dramatically cut their cost of living while introducing opportunities for financial gain, tailored to a lifestyle that champions both mobility and flexibility.

This is something I cannot wait to start doing myself as an early retiree!

In the era of remote work and digital nomadism, the housesitting lifestyle dovetails perfectly with the capacity to earn money from anywhere.

Rather than a stint of In a world where the cost of living is perpetually rising, this is a simple solution. Plus it is an increasingly popular reality for savvy individuals looking to slash their living expenses and enhance their income streams.

Now, let’s dig into how to get paid to house sit.

The Basics of House Sitting for Income

House sitting for income can be a practical way to earn extra money by caring for someone’s home while they’re away.

A house sitter can earn money by taking on paid assignments to care for someone’s home, which often includes responsibilities like watering plants, feeding pets, and maintaining the property’s general upkeep.
Additionally, house sitters may supplement their income by engaging in flexible online work or other jobs that allow them to take advantage of the rent-free living situation provided by house sitting opportunities.

This is a simple way to make money.

Is House Sitting the Right Gig for You?

This will vary from person to person.

Typically, if you have a love for adventure and live a simplistic life, this could be the perfect side hustle for you.

You can make money while not paying to travel the world and not pay rent. Plus you can work another side hustle or full time job at the same time.

What if you could use your housesitting gig to see the world?

Can you picture yourself waking up to a sunrise over the Tuscan hills, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon in a cozy cottage in the Cotswolds, all without the cost of accommodation eating into your budget?

This fantasy can be your reality through a unique travel approach: house sitting while exploring the globe.

House sitting opens doors to experiences far beyond those of a typical tourist. When stepping into the life of a local, you not only enjoy the comforts of a home but also immerse yourself in the local culture, customs, and way of life—something you can’t put a price tag on.

Yes, please. Sign me up!

House Sit Match

A trusted network for house sitters, pet sitters, house owners, and pet owners.

Our dedicated Free live-in house sitters ensure pets stay safe and happy at home, granting owners peace of mind while they travel.

Check It Out

How do I become a house sitter?

Becoming a professional house sitter starts with the right mindset and preparation. To embark on this exciting venture, follow a systematic approach to gain trust, experience, and create opportunities that could lead to paid gigs.

Here’s a quick guide to set you on your path:

Self-Assessment: Evaluate if the lifestyle suits you. Comfort with travel, adaptability, and responsibility are key.
Research: Learn about the expectations and requirements of the job by engaging with existing house sitters or homeowners.
References: Start with house sitting for friends or family to garner initial references and practical experience.
Online Presence: Sign up for reputable house sitting websites and create a compelling profile that highlights your unique offering.
Reviews: Ask for reviews on each of your housesitting gigs to build up your portfolio.
Stay Booked: If you are consistently booked, then repeat homeowners will reach out sooner to book your services.

By taking these steps, you’re well on your way to securing your first gig as a house sitter and potentially turning it into a rewarding path to see the world.

Setting Yourself up for Success to House Sit

Gain Experience and Build Credibility

Embarking on a journey in house sitting may feel like a daunting task at first, especially when experience seems like a prerequisite to getting started. Yet, remember every expert was once a beginner.

Follow these tips to gain experience and build a rock-solid credibility:

Volunteer: Offer to house sit for friends, family, or colleagues to gather firsthand experience and positive testimonials.
Document Everything: Keep a record of your sits, including photos and detailed notes, to showcase your experience to future clients.
Ask for Reviews: After each sit, ask the homeowner for a review that you can use on housesitting platforms or your personal website.
Improve Continuously: Each house sit is a learning experience. Take feedback seriously and work to enhance your service.
Join a Community: Engage with other house sitters online or in person to exchange tips, seek advice, and stay motivated.

Remember, each home cared for and each pet pampered brings you one step closer to becoming a seasoned and sought-after house sitter.

Creating an Impressive House Sitting Profile

First impressions count tremendously, and in the world of house sitting, your profile is your digital handshake.

A stellar profile not only introduces you to potential clients, but it also demonstrates your professionalism and suitability for house sitting opportunities.

Include clear information about your past house-sitting jobs, mentioning the names of the homeowners (with their permission), specific locations, and the range of responsibilities you held during each assignment.
Emphasize specific house-sitting skills that you excel in, such as high-level cleaning capabilities or exceptional resourcefulness in unexpected situations.
Highlight any certifications that enhance your qualifications for house-sitting, particularly those that resonate with pet owners, like pet CPR or first-aid certifications.
If you have experience in managing household emergencies, stress situations, or particular types of pets, ensure this is prominently noted.

House sitting as a full-time lifestyle

Whether you’re a digital nomad, in between jobs or studies, retired, or simply looking for a break from the norm, long stay house sitting could be for you.

Make money and travel the world. Sounds like a good deal, right?

Get Started

Finding Opportunities for Paid House Sitting

Utilize Specialized House Sitting Directories

Exploring specialized housesitting directories can be your gateway to a myriad of housesitting opportunities. Here’s how you can make these directories work for you:

TrustedHousesitters: Get connected with homeowners across the globe and enjoy perks like a 24/7 vet advice line and insurance guarantees.
House Sitters America: An affordable platform offering a user-friendly interface and a variety of features for people seeking house sitting jobs across the U.S., with an annual fee of just $30.
House Sit Match: Offers an international platform where members can create personal profiles with videos, search and apply for a variety of house sitting services across different countries, and secure arrangements with legally approved contracts.
MindMyHouse: Access a global database where you can apply to house sits and finalize details with secure forms provided on the site.
HouseCarers: Navigate assignments with ease and get alerts for opportunities that match your preferences.
Luxury House Sitting: The opportunity to stay in exquisite homes and care for pets while exploring local culture and making new friends, all for a nominal yearly membership fee.

Build a robust profile on these directories, illustrating your experience, skills, and even why homeowners should trust you with their precious homes and pets.

House Sit Match

A trusted network for house sitters, pet sitters, house owners, and pet owners.

Our dedicated Free live-in house sitters ensure pets stay safe and happy at home, granting owners peace of mind while they travel.

Check It Out

Leverage Social Media and Networking

Social media and networking are vital cogs in the wheel of modern housesitting success. Make sure to have a solid strategy in place to enhance your visibility and connect you with the right opportunities.

Create a Professional Image: Establish a dedicated Facebook page or Instagram profile showcasing your housesitting adventures and testimonials.
Networking Events: Join home and pet owner meetups to discuss your services and share stories.
Engage with Communities: Participate in forums and groups related to house sitting, pets, and travel to position yourself as a knowledgeable and reliable sitter.
Word of Mouth: Encourage clients to share your services digitally—from a simple share of your profile to tagging you in a post about their great experience.
Collaborations: Team up with pet-related or travel influencers for your mutual benefit. They spread the word about your services, and you provide content and insights for their platforms.

Remember to be genuine and helpful online. Consistency and kindness tend to yield more benefits than aggressive self-promotion.

The Art of Landing Lucrative House Sitting Gigs

Crafting Your Pitch: Stand Out in Your Application

When it comes to landing that house sitting gig, the application you submit is your golden ticket. Crafting a pitch-perfect application can set you apart from the crowd. Here’s how you can ensure your application shines:

Tailor Your Message: Show you’ve read the listing by referencing specifics—like the pet’s names and unique home features.
Highlight Relevant Skills: If they have a garden that needs tending, mention your green thumb. Got experience with exotic pets? That’s worth noting, too.
Strike a Balance: Be professional yet personable. Show your personality and expertise, but keep it clear that you’re serious about their needs.
Prompt Replies: From the initial application to follow-up communications, respond promptly to show you’re attentive and eager.
Ask Intelligent Questions: Clarify any uncertainties and show genuine interest in the specifics of the house sit.

Above all, remember that your application is a reflection of you. Make every word count, and let your dedication to being an exceptional house sitter be evident.

Negotiating Payment: Tips for Reaching an Agreement

Negotiating payment is a nuanced art, especially in house sitting where assignments can vary widely. Here’s a cheat sheet to navigate the payment conversation gracefully and effectively:

Research Rates: Know the going rate for similar housesitting services in the area. According to Care.com, most housesitting gigs pay between $50-100 per day. Obviously, location, price of the home, and job details can fluctuate this amount. 1
Assess Value: Estimate the value you provide, taking into account any additional responsibilities like pet care or gardening.
Open Dialogue: Initiate the conversation on payment terms confidently but diplomatically.
Be Transparent: Clearly articulate what your rate includes and be open about any potential extra charges.
Flexibility: Be prepared to negotiate and find a middle ground that respects your worth while accommodating the homeowner’s budget.

Most importantly, remember that your time and services are valuable. A fair agreement is one where both parties feel respected and satisfied. Don’t forget you will be earning 1099 income, so account for taxes!

Essential Skills and Knowledge for Professional House Sitters

Understanding the Responsibilities of a House Sitter

Embracing the role of a house sitter means stepping into a realm of varied and significant responsibilities. You’re not just occupying a space; you’re safeguarding a home and all it encompasses. Here’s what’s typically expected:

Maintenance: Keeping the house tidy and overseeing any routine upkeep.
Pet Care: If furry friends are in the mix, feed, walk, and provide the essential company they need.
Garden & Plants: Hydrate indoor plants and possibly manage an outdoor garden.
Security: Perform regular checks, activate alarm systems, and maintain a presence that deters potential intruders.
Emergency Handling: Be ready to address unexpected scenarios, from leaks to power outages.

Understanding these duties is the cornerstone of professional house sitting, ensuring peace of mind for homeowners and a reputable standing for you.

Managing Client Expectations and Providing Exceptional Service

Exceeding a homeowner’s expectations isn’t just about fulfilling a checklist; it’s about delivering comfort and trust through your service. Here’s how to excel in managing client expectations and providing a level of service that gets you invited back time and time again:

Clear Communication: From the start, clarify what services you’ll provide and understand the homeowner’s needs and concerns.
Professionalism: Treat the housesitting assignment with the same dedication and commitment you would any other job.
Attention to Detail: Take note of specific instructions and preferences. Homeowners appreciate when you care for their home as they would.
Regular Updates: Keep homeowners informed about how everything is going, especially regarding their pets’ well-being.
Leave a Positive Lasting Impression: Ensure the home is clean and welcoming upon the homeowners’ return. Maybe even getting fresh flowers for the dining room table on their return.

By managing expectations and delivering exceptional service, you build a reputation that enhances your portfolio and opens doors to new opportunities.

Navigating Legal and Financial Aspects

Setting Smart Pay Preferences and Rates

Determining your pay preferences and setting your rates calls for a strategic blend of self-awareness and market understanding. Here’s how to set intelligent rates that reflect your value:

Self-Evaluation: Consider your level of experience, the range of services you offer, and what sets you apart from others.
Market Research: Look into the average rates for house sitters in your target locations and skill set.
Expenses: Account for any travel or incidental expenses you may incur while house sitting.
Define Your Rates: Set a base rate for standard responsibilities and consider additional fees for extra services such as pet care or extensive gardening.
Be Clear & Upfront: State your rates on your profiles and websites to maintain transparency with potential clients.

Smartly set preferences and rates not only attract serious inquiries but also ensure you are adequately compensated for your commitment and services.

Insurance and Professional Cover Considerations

When stepping into someone’s home as a professional house sitter, it’s crucial to consider the layers of protection both for yourself and the property you’re responsible for.

Here’s what to keep in mind regarding insurance, professional coverage, and house sitting agreement:

Liability Insurance: Protect yourself against claims for damage or accidents that could occur during your stay. This is why many start by using a trusted site like Trusted Housesitters.
Personal Indemnity Insurance: If you’re advising on security or care, this can cover you for the advice provided.
Pet First Aid Certification: Not insurance per se, but it boosts credibility and reassures clients about their pet’s welfare.
Travel Insurance: Ensure it covers you for housesitting activities abroad if you’re traveling for gigs.
Understand Policies: If using platforms like TrustedHousesitters, know what their insurance offerings entail and how they apply to you.

Having the right cover is an investment in your business—it not only gives peace of mind but also enhances trust between you and your clients.

Growing as a Professional House Sitter

Learn From Every Assignment and Feedback

Every house sitting assignment is a classroom of its own. From bespoke routines to diverse pet personalities, each gig is an opportunity to grow professionally.

Reflect on Feedback: After completing a sit, take time to consider any feedback given—both praise and constructive criticism.
Continuous Improvement: Use each assignment to refine your skills, be it pet care, communication, or home maintenance.
Feedback Loop: Encourage homeowners to provide honest feedback to help you enhance service quality further.
Journal Experiences: Keep a detailed journal of your sits, noting what you learned and how you might improve. Plus small details to improve on repeat clients.
Proactive Learning: Seek out resources to bolster areas where feedback suggests there’s room for growth.

By treating each assignment as a learning experience, you not only become more adept at house sitting but also signal to potential clients that you’re committed to excellence.

Stay Informed and Adaptive to Industry Trends

The house sitting industry is alive with evolution, influenced by changing homeowner preferences, technological advancements, and a shifting global landscape. Staying ahead means being both informed and adaptable. Here’s how you can keep pace with the industry trends:

Market Research: Regularly check industry reports, surveys, and forums for the latest changes in house sitting rates and homeowner expectations.
Adapt Services: Be prepared to adjust your service offerings in response to new demands, such as smart home technology management or eco-friendly home care practices.
Embrace Technology: Utilize new apps and digital tools designed for house sitters to streamline bookings, client communications, and task management.
Professional Development: Attend workshops, webinars, or conferences focused on house sitting to expand your knowledge and network.
Growth Mindset: Treat every new trend or change as an opportunity to learn and expand your business to new markets and opportunities.

By embracing a commitment to continuous learning and flexibility, you position yourself at the forefront of the house sitting industry.

FAQs About Making Money Through House Sitting

Yes, it’s possible to earn a living exclusively from housesitting.

While it may require dedication to build a client base and can vary by location, those with strong reputations can find continuous opportunities. Diversifying services and locations can aid in maintaining a steady income.

For short-term house sitting gigs, rates may be higher due to the convenience factor for homeowners. In contrast, long-term sits may attract lower daily rates but offer steadier work.

Emphasize the value provided and seek a fair agreement that reflects the length and complexity of the job.

Unexpected costs in house sitting can arise, such as expenses for transportation, utilities, or emergencies. Clear agreements with homeowners about who covers these costs are crucial.

Always have a contingency plan and discuss potential unforeseen expenses in advance.

Ready to Start House Sitting as a Job?

In conclusion, venturing into the world of house sitting can be an exceptionally rewarding endeavor, offering you the unparalleled opportunity to explore new places while ensuring homeowners’ peace of mind.

House sitting is more than just a job; it’s a lifestyle that allows for flexibility, adventure, and personal growth.

By signing up with TrustedHousesitters, you’re not only stepping into a hub of global house-sitting opportunities. You’re also choosing a platform renowned for its extensive listings and high trust level among the community.

Recognized as the world’s largest site for house sitting, TrustedHousesitters connects you with a wide array of homeowners across the UK, Europe, North America, and Australia, broadening your horizons and making the small annual membership fee a worthwhile investment in your new house-sitting career.

With your enthusiasm, thoughtful profile, and personalized approach to each application, you are setting yourself up for success. Your open availability is a prime time to make money.

So why wait? Sign up, create your profile, and get ready to embark on your house-sitting journey with TrustedHousesitters today!

House sitting as a full-time lifestyle

Whether you’re a digital nomad, in between jobs or studies, retired, or simply looking for a break from the norm, long stay house sitting could be for you.

Make money and travel the world. Sounds like a good deal, right?

Get Started

Source

Care.com. “House sitting rates: How to determine fair pay every time.” https://www.care.com/c/house-sitting-rates/. Accessed March 7, 2024.

Did the post resonate with you?

More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!

Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.

Source: moneybliss.org

Apache is functioning normally

March 11, 2024 by Brett Tams

Do you want to make money from your phone? I have been making money from my phone for many years now, and it’s a great way to make extra income or even a full-time income! Your phone can help you make money in many ways too. You can sell things you don’t need or use…

Do you want to make money from your phone?

I have been making money from my phone for many years now, and it’s a great way to make extra income or even a full-time income!

Your phone can help you make money in many ways too. You can sell things you don’t need or use your skills on freelance platforms. Answering surveys, selling photos, or being a virtual friend can also make you money, all from wherever you are comfortable.

Best Ways To Make Money From Your Phone

Below are the best ways to make money from your phone.

1. Answer surveys

You can earn money with your phone by answering surveys. Companies pay for your opinion, and you can do this whenever you have free time, such as when you’re just sitting on the couch watching TV with your phone in your hand.

Surveys are like a bunch of questions that companies ask to find out what you like or what you think about something. They might ask about the food you eat, the games you play, or even about your shopping habits.

You answer these questions, and in return, they give you money, points, or free gift cards (such as free Amazon gift cards) as a way to thank you for your time.

Some of the paid online survey companies I recommend are:

Here are 11 Paid Online Survey Sites if you want to learn more.

I have done many paid surveys over the years, and I love how I can answer them right from my phone and whenever I want. I can answer them while watching a video, during a lunch break, before or after work, and more.

2. Sell photos

You can use your phone to take pictures and make money. Selling stock photos is a fun way to make money through passive income without actively working for it.

Not all photographers need a fancy camera to start. Your phone can work perfectly and the newest smartphones can take great, high-quality photos. My phone can take great pictures and it wasn’t super expensive – it’s just a normal Android phone.

With stock photography, you can upload pictures you’ve taken with your camera or phone to a platform like Depositphotos. When someone buys one of your photos, you earn a commission.

Websites, companies, and blogs use stock photos for many reasons. Businesses use them to improve their content, websites, or overall appearance when they might not have the time to take all the photos they need.

I personally often use stock photos in my blog posts, and I know many others who do too. The pictures throughout this article (yes, the one that you are reading) are all stock photos.

Stock photography includes pictures of things such as:

Travel and landscapes
Business and finance, like laptops, offices, and people working
Family, such as parents and children
Household items, such as a living room and kitchen
Animals, such as pets and wildlife
Vehicles like cars and boats
Health and wellness, such as fitness-related images, healthy food, someone working out
Sports, from professional events to casual games

Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures

3. Instacart Shopper

Making money through your phone is possible with grocery and food delivery apps like Instacart. As an Instacart Shopper, you get paid to shop for groceries and deliver them to people who order online.

Getting groceries delivered is a service that lots of people are using more and more. I’ve used it a few times when I didn’t have time to go shopping or didn’t have a car.

With this job, you have the freedom to make your own schedule, and you can get paid pretty fast – sometimes the same day.

Delivering groceries is a popular side job, and all you need is a valid driver’s license, a car, and your cell phone.

You earn money for each delivery and get to keep all your tips. Platforms like Instacart and Shipt can help you make around $15 to $20 per hour.

Learn more at Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?

4. JustAnswer

JustAnswer is a site where you can make money by using your phone to help others. If you have skills or knowledge in a particular area, you can answer questions and earn cash.

JustAnswer states that you can make $2,000 to $7,000 a month as an expert answering questions online on their site.

People ask questions, and the site matches them with an expert who can answer. For example, someone might ask how to change their oil or why their cat is sick. As an expert, you’ll be answering questions and giving personalized help through text chat.

There are experts in fields like mechanics, doctors, lawyers, veterinarians, home experts, appraisers, computer and tech experts, and more.

You can work whenever you want from your computer or cell phone, and you get to choose which questions you want to answer.

To get started, apply online on JustAnswer. They’ll verify your credentials (every expert on this platform is verified by a third party and needs to have licenses, education, or employment in their field of expertise). Once approved, you’ll have a quick meeting with the JustAnswer team to learn how to use the platform.

It takes about one week to become verified, and you can receive payments through direct deposit, PayPal, or Venmo.

Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text

5. DoorDash

When you want to make money with your phone, DoorDash is one way you can do that. DoorDash is a gig app where you deliver food to people.

Working with DoorDash means you’re part of the gig economy, delivering restaurant meals to customers. You have the flexibility to pick your hours and decide when and where you want to work.

Depending on your location, you can deliver food with a car or by bike.

The app is your main tool for the job, and it shows you your orders, where to go, and how to get there.

Your earnings depend on each delivery. You can make $2 to $10 or more, plus tips.

Please click here to sign up for DoorDash.

6. Fiverr

Fiverr is a way to make money from your phone as it’s an online platform where people do all sorts of online work, like writing, designing, or making videos.

Some services you can sell to make money from your phone include:

Chat support customer service – Manage customer service for a business as a freelancer.
Social media posting assistant – Help clients schedule and post content on their social media platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook.
Virtual fitness coaching – You can give fitness coaching sessions or create personalized workout plans from your phone.
Online language lessons – Teach language lessons through video calls or voice messages.
Life coaching – Share motivational messages, life advice, or coaching sessions through your phone, such as in phone calls or texts.
Mobile app testing – Test and give feedback on mobile apps for developers.

When someone buys your service from your listing, they pay Fiverr. Fiverr takes 20%, and you receive 80% of the funds after a 14-day pending period.

Another popular platform somewhat similar to Fiverr for freelancers is Upwork.

7. RentAFriend

If you’re looking to make money from your phone, RentAFriend could be an interesting choice. This platform allows you to get paid for being a friend.

As a RentAFriend, you might respond to text messages and have phone conversations with the person. You can be a friend in person, over video chat, or through text messages, depending on your preference.

With RentAFriend, you set your own hours and the price for your time. Earnings can range from $10 to $50 per hour, depending on what you decide.

Here’s how it works:

Sign up on the RentAFriend website.
Create a profile that shows who you are and what kinds of activities you enjoy.
Once your profile is live, people can find you and request your friendship services.

People join this site to find a friend and someone to talk to, and that’s where you come in.

8. Papa app

Papa is a website where you can chat with older adults, help them around their house and with shopping, and more.

You’re simply giving them some extra support with their day-to-day tasks, and you can earn money right from your phone for some of these tasks.

As a Papa Pal, you get to set your own schedule. The amount you can earn per hour varies depending on your location.

9. BetterHelp therapist

If you’re a licensed therapist, you might like making money using your phone with BetterHelp. BetterHelp is an online platform where therapists help people.

You can work with clients by chatting, phone calls, or video calls. You’ll need good internet and a private place to talk.

As a therapist on BetterHelp, estimated earnings are around $100,000 per year for working 40 hours per week. You can also work part-time at around 5 to 15 hours per week and earn around $8,000 to $27,000 each year.

To join, they require at least 3 years of experience in therapy for adults, couples, or teens.

10. Play games on your phone

There are many money making apps where you can get paid to play games on your phone.

Game apps pay real money rewards because they earn money through ads and in-app purchases. To motivate you to keep playing their games, they share a portion of their earnings with you.

Here’s a quick list of the top game apps that pay real cash:

KashKick
Swagbucks
InboxDollars

When selecting gaming apps to make money, it’s important to check reviews and understand how you receive your earnings. Be cautious with apps that require payment to play or promise rewards that seem too good to be true. Also, keep track of the time you spend playing games to make sure it is worth it.

Recommended reading: 23 Best Game Apps To Win Real Money

11. User Testing

UserTesting is a way you can make money by trying out websites and apps. Companies will pay you for your honest thoughts on how easy they are to use.

To participate in tests, you’ll need a computer or a smartphone, an internet connection, and a microphone. Some tests may also require a webcam.

When you test websites, you look out for things that don’t work well or can be confusing. Your feedback helps companies improve as they want real opinions, not just quick answers.

Here’s how it works:

Sign up with a user testing site.
They’ll give you tasks, like finding something on a website. Most tests take about 15 to 20 minutes.
You record your screen and talk about what you’re thinking.
After you’re done, you send your feedback.
You get paid! You could earn around $10 per test.

Payments are usually made through online services like PayPal.

I have personally paid someone to do a UserTesting review on this site, Making Sense of Cents. It’s a great way to see what a stranger thinks of your website and they gave me tons of helpful tips and let me know what changes I should make to make my website better for readers.

12. Sell used items online

If you have stuff you don’t use anymore, selling it online can be a smart way to make some money. Your old phones, clothes, games, and books could be worth something to someone else.

And, you can do all of this right from your cell phone!

Whether you have old things around your home that you want to sell or if you want to start a reselling business, there are many apps that make it easy to sell stuff right from your phone.

Some of the best selling apps are Poshmark for clothing, Worthy for jewelry, Facebook Marketplace for local sales, and Decluttr for electronics.

I have personally sold many items over the years on various sites to make extra income. At one point, I even had a small reselling business. So, I understand firsthand how helpful these sites and apps can be!

13. Sell your data

You can earn money from your phone by selling your data through apps. These apps pay you for the data you don’t use. You might be concerned about safety, but in most cases, it is safe.

These apps usually operate in the background, helping companies understand how people use the internet. Data apps aren’t full-time jobs and you won’t get rich from them, but they can be easy side gigs.

Honeygain is one app where you can earn cash, and you get paid for data you’re not using. You just install the app, and it runs without you doing anything extra.

You receive payment based on the amount of traffic passing through your connection, with Honeygain paying $1 for every 10 GB of traffic.

14. Instagrammer

If you love sharing photos and videos, Instagram can be a great way for you to make some extra money with your social media accounts.

I have made income from Instagram over the years, and while it’s not my full-time income, it is a fun way to make money from my phone.

This is because you can start an Instagram on whatever niche you want, such as fitness, travel, fashion, family, and more. So, you may be able to have a lot of fun managing and growing your social media account.

Then, you’ll want to make sure you regularly share high-quality content, use relevant tags, post reels, and interact with your audience to steadily increase your follower count.

15. Get paid to walk

You can actually make money just by walking! There are apps that track your steps and reward you for staying active. You can download these to your phone, start walking, and watch your steps turn into rewards.

Sweatcoin is one app you might like. If you’re over 13 and have a smartphone, you can join. It changes your walking into points that you can use. You can get stuff like gift cards or even support charities.

Getting paid is easy:

Join an app – Sign up for an app that fits you.
Walk and collect – Carry your phone and collect points as you walk.
Earn rewards – Swap your points for things like money to PayPal or cool products.

Some apps might hook up to a fitness tracker. This way, if your phone isn’t with you, you won’t miss out on any steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to make money from your phone.

How can I use my phone to make money?

You can make money on your phone by selling things you no longer need on apps like Decluttr or through your own store on platforms like Shopify. You could also complete online surveys, sign up for market research, or perform tasks on gig economy apps.

How can I make passive income on my phone?

One way to make passive income from your phone is to sell stock photography. You could take pictures from your phone, and then sell them over and over again online!

How can teenagers earn money using mobile apps?

Teenagers can earn money from their phones in their spare time by taking online surveys, performing tasks, selling products online, or using apps that reward users for maintaining good habits, like staying active.

How can I make $100 a day on my phone?

There are many ways to make $100 a day from your phone, such as selling items online and signing up for gig jobs like Instacart.

What are the quickest ways to make money on your phone?

The fastest ways to make money with your phone include taking surveys, using cash back shopping apps (because you may shop online a lot already!), playing games that have real rewards, and delivering groceries or meals with gig apps.

How can I learn how to make money with my phone without any investment?

There are many ways to make money from your phone for free, such as answering surveys, selling items that you already own (such as old clothing that you no longer wear, CDs, DVDs, or old devices that you don’t use anymore), driving for Uber, delivering groceries with Instacart, and more.

What apps can I use to make money with my phone?

Apps like Instacart, Papa, and Uber are all good ways to make side hustle money with your phone. There are many other ways that I didn’t mention above that are good options, such as Fetch Rewards (scan your receipt from grocery shopping), Acorns (micro-investing app for your spare change), Ibotta (a grocery shopping app), Neighbor (rent out your storage), Lyft (drive others around), TaskRabbit (sell your handyperson services, such as building furniture), OfferUp (selling stuff that you no longer need), and Rakuten (get cash back on your online shopping).

These apps are available on both Google Play stores and the iOS app store.

How To Make Money From Your Phone – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on the many ways to make money from your phone.

As you can see from the above, there are many ways to make extra cash from your phone, from part-time gigs to full-time income. Whether you have an Android or Apple phone, there are many ways on the list above that you may want to try out.

What do you think is the best way to make money with a phone?

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

March 10, 2024 by Brett Tams

Millions of employees work from home at least part time. They’ve carved out dedicated office space and plopped laptops on kitchen counters and in closets. They almost never can declare the home office tax deduction.

Millions of self-employed people have also created workspaces at home. If they use that part of their home exclusively and regularly for conducting business, and the home is the principal place of business, they may be able to deduct office-related business expenses.

Why the difference? The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act nearly doubled the standard deduction and eliminated many itemized deductions, including unreimbursed employee expenses, from 2018 to 2025.

Read on to learn whether or not you may qualify for the home office tax deduction.

What Is a Home Office Tax Deduction?

The home office tax deduction is available to self-employed people — independent contractors, sole proprietors, members of a business partnership, freelancers, and gig workers who require an office — who use part of their home, owned or rented, as a place of work regularly and exclusively.

“Home” can be a house, condo, apartment, mobile home, boat, or similar property, and includes structures on the property like an unattached garage, studio, barn, or greenhouse.

Eligible taxpayers can take a simplified deduction of up to $1,500 or go the detailed route and deduct office furniture, homeowners or renters insurance, internet, utilities needed for the business, repairs, and maintenance that affect the office, home depreciation, rent, mortgage interest, and many other things from taxable income.

After all, reducing taxable income is particularly important for the highly taxed self-employed (viewed by the IRS as both employee and employer.)

An employee who also has a side gig — like driving for Uber or dog walking — can deduct certain expenses from their self-employment income if they run the business out of their home.
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Am I Eligible for a Home Office Deduction?

People who receive a W-2 form from their employer almost never qualify.

In general, a self-employed person who receives one or more IRS 1099-NEC tax forms may take the home office tax deduction.

Both of these must apply:

• You use the business part of your home exclusively and regularly for business purposes.

• The business part of your home is your main place of business; the place where you deal with patients or customers in the normal course of your business; or a structure not attached to the home that you use in connection with your business.

Regular and Exclusive Use

You must use a portion of the home for business needs on a regular basis. The real trick is to meet the IRS standard for the exclusive use of a home office. An at-home worker may spend nine hours a day, five days a week in a home office, yet is not supposed to take the home office deduction if the space is shared with a spouse or doubles as a gym or a child’s homework spot.

There are two exceptions to the IRS exclusive-use rules for home businesses.

• Daycare providers. Individuals offering daycare from home likely qualify for the home office tax deduction. Part of the home is used as a daycare facility for children, people with physical or mental disabilities, or people who are 65 and older. (If you run a daycare, your business-use percentage must be reduced because the space is available for personal use part of the time.)

• Storage of business products. If a home-based businessperson uses a portion of the home to store inventory or product samples, it’s OK to use that area for personal use as well. The home must be the only fixed location of the business or trade.

Principal Place of Business

Part of your home may qualify as your principal place of business “if you use it for the administrative or management activities of your trade or business and have no other fixed location where you conduct substantial administrative or management activities for that trade or business,” the IRS says.

Can You Qualify for a Home Office Deduction as an Employee?

Employees may only take the deduction if they maintain a home office for the “convenience of their employer,” meaning the home office is a condition of employment, necessary for the employer’s business to function, or needed to allow the employee to perform their duties.

Because your home must be your principal place of business in order to take the home office deduction, most employees who work part-time at home won’t qualify.

Can I Run More Than One Business in the Same Space?

If you have more than one Schedule C business, you can claim the same home office space, but you’ll have to split the expenses between the businesses. You cannot deduct the home office expenses multiple times.

How to Calculate the Home Office Tax Deduction

The deduction is most commonly based on square footage or the percentage of a home used as the home office.

The Simplified Method

If your office is 300 square feet or under, Uncle Sam allows you to deduct $5 per square foot, up to 300 square feet, for a maximum $1,500 tax deduction.

The Real Expense Method

The regular method looks at the percentage of the home used for business purposes. If your home office is 480 square feet and the home has 2,400 square feet, the percentage used for the home office tax deduction is 20%.

You may deduct 20% of indirect business expenses like utilities, cellphone, cable, homeowners or renters insurance, property tax, HOA fees, and cleaning service.

Direct expenses for the home office, such as painting, furniture, office supplies, and repairs, are 100% deductible.
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Things to Look Out for Before Applying for the Home Office Tax Deduction

If you’re an employee with side gigs or just self-employed, it might be a good idea to consult a tax pro when filing.

To avoid raising red flags, you may want to make sure your business expenses are reasonable, accurate, and well-documented. The IRS uses both automated and manual methods of examining self-employed workers’ tax returns. And in 2020, the agency created a Fraud Enforcement Office, part of its Small Business/Self-Employed Division. Among the filers in its sights are self-employed people.

The IRS conducts audits by mail or in-person to review records. The interview may be at an IRS office or at the tax filer’s home.

A final note: Taking all the deductions you’re entitled to and being informed about the different types of taxes is smart.

If you’re self-employed, you generally must pay a Social Security and Medicare tax of 15.3% of net earnings. Wage-earners pay 7.65% of gross income into Social Security and Medicare via payroll-tax withholding, matched by the employer.

So self-employed people often feel the burn at tax time. It’s smart to look for deductions and write off those home business expenses if you’re able to.

To shelter income and invest for retirement, you might want to set up a SEP IRA if you’re a self-employed professional with no employees.

Recommended: First-Time Homebuyers Guide

The Takeaway

If you’re an employee working remotely, the home office tax deduction is not for you, right now, anyway.

If you’re self-employed, the home office deduction could be helpful at tax time. To qualify for the home office deduction, you must use a portion of your house, apartment, or condominium (or any other type of home) for your business on a regular basis, and it generally must be the principal location of your business. This is something to keep in mind if you’re in the market for a new home, since writing off a portion of your home expenses could help offset some of the costs of homeownership.

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FAQ

How much can I get written off for my home office?

Using the simplified method of calculating the home office deduction, you can write off up to $1,500. Using the regular method, you’ll need to determine the percentage of your home being used for business purposes. You may then be able to deduct that percentage of certain indirect expenses (like utilities, cellphone, cable, homeowners or renters insurance, property tax, HOA fees, and cleaning services). Direct expenses for the home office, such as painting, furniture, office supplies, and repairs, are generally 100% deductible.

Can I make a claim for a home office tax deduction without receipts?

The simplified method does not require detailed records of expenses. If using the regular method, you should be prepared to defend your deduction in the event of an IRS audit.

The IRS says the law requires you to keep all records you used to prepare your tax return for at least three years from the date the return was filed.

What qualifies as a home office deduction?

Things like insurance, utilities, repairs, maintenance, equipment, and rent may qualify as tax deductions.

Photo credit: iStock/Marija Zlatkovic

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Source: sofi.com